Whether you have a toothache, a broken tooth, a cracked jaw, a knocked-out tooth, or sudden bleeding, having a plan for dental emergencies can help you prevent more serious injuries and save valuable time. The following guidance on dental first aid will help you deal with various dental issues. For more information, contact a dentist in Willowdale, North York, ON.
Dental emergencies and first aid
- Toothache
Sometimes, certain people try treating toothaches by putting aspirin or acetaminophen on the gum close to the painful tooth. This in and of itself could prove dangerous since it may end in a chemical reaction on the gum that hurts even worse. You should instead brush and thoroughly rinse your mouth with warm water. To remove any food stuck between the tooth, gently floss surrounding the tooth. If the pain persists, take paracetamol or another moderate medication, and then contact your dentist immediately. Your dentist will identify the source of the discomfort and treat it.
- Broken tooth
When your tooth breaks due to trauma, save the pieces you can locate and clean them with water or saline. Warm water should be used when you rinse your mouth, and some gauze should cover the bleeding region for 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Place a cool compress on the surrounding lip, cheek, or skin outside the mouth to reduce discomfort and prevent swelling. Call your dentist immediately to schedule an appointment.
- Possible broken jaw
Applying a cold compress to the injured area is advisable to ease the pain and swelling from a fractured jaw. Do not hesitate to go to the emergency department of a neighboring hospital or visit your dentist immediately due to the severity of the injury.
- Knocked-out teeth
If a tooth is knocked out, take it and gently rinse it to disinfect it without scrubbing or destroying tissue sticking to it. Put a tissue or towel in the sink to stop the tooth from falling down the drain when you clean it.
Put the tooth again in its socket gently if you can. Otherwise, soak it in milk and visit your dentist as soon as possible. If it is clean, place the tooth between your cheek and lower gum to shift it. To enhance your tooth’s chance of survival, you must go to a dentist within an hour of the injury.
- Something stuck in between your teeth.
Try using dental floss to gently and carefully remove anything stuck between your teeth. Make a visit with your dentist immediately if the thing cannot come out. Do not use a sharp object like a pin to remove the thing. Sharp items can damage the surface of your teeth or break and cut your gums, which can lead to further issues.
