Dealing with Dental Emergencies: what you need to know
In the event of a dental emergency, it is essential to be prepared and know how to take immediate action. This blog post provides valuable advice on dealing with dental emergencies. From severe bleeding to unbearable tooth pain and sudden swelling, understanding the signs and symptoms is crucial. Discover the steps to handle dental emergencies effectively and provide at-home care.
When facing a dental emergency, contact our practice immediately for an emergency appointment. Even non-registered patients can access our dental emergency service. Our dentists offer an out-of-hours emergency service, and if immediate care is unavailable, we will provide guidance to call 111 for further assistance.
Severe Bleeding in Dental Emergencies: Causes and At-Home Care:
Severe oral bleeding requires prompt attention. Learn to identify the causes of bleeding, whether it’s due to injury or infection, or following a tooth extraction. Take immediate steps to control the bleeding by applying direct pressure using sterile gauze. Advise the person to bite down on the padding while keeping your fingers clear. Contact a dental professional for further assistance.
Managing unbearable Tooth pain in dental emergencies
Intense tooth pain can be a sign of a dental emergency. While waiting for an emergency dental consultation, alleviate the discomfort by taking over-the-counter painkillers (if age-appropriate) and applying a cold compress to the affected area. Avoid direct application of ice to the tooth to prevent increased pain. Contact your dentist for an emergency appointment.
Sudden and Severe Swelling: Dealing with Dental Emergency Signs:
Recognize the signs of sudden and significant swelling around the tooth, gums, or mouth. Provide temporary relief by using a cold compress on the associated cheek to reduce swelling and manage pain. Administer over-the-counter painkillers for pain management. Rinse the mouth with saltwater to ease symptoms and promote tissue healing. Seek immediate dental care for further treatment.
Dental Trauma: Handling Knocked-Out Teeth or Damage:
Act quickly when dealing with knocked-out teeth in a dental emergency. Attempt to reinsert the tooth into its socket or store it between the teeth and cheek until professional help is available. Keeping the tooth moist by placing it in a sealed container with saliva or milk improves preservation chances. Contact your dentist immediately for appropriate care.
What Not to Do in a Dental Emergency:
During a dental emergency, it’s important to avoid actions that may worsen the situation or complicate future treatments. Remember these key points:
- Avoid touching the tooth roots, only handle the visible crown.
- Refrain from cleaning the affected teeth to prevent nerve or blood vessel damage.
- Do not use harsh chemicals to sterilize the tooth, as they can damage the tooth.
