Dental accidents can be some of the most frightening types of trauma due to the pain and concern about how your smile might be affected. Over half a million people visit the emergency room each year for dental-related issues, but many ERs aren’t equipped to treat dental problems. In these situations, waiting for a dentist can feel stressful, but being prepared can help you manage until professional care is available.
Building a Dental Emergency Kit
Having a few essential items can help you handle dental trauma. Suggested items include:
- Gauze
- Q-tips
- Salt packets
- A small container
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Sugarless gum
- Dentist’s phone number
Immediate Steps for Oral Injuries
If your mouth is damaged in an accident, rinse with warm salt water and take pain medication as needed. If the nerves or dentin of your tooth are exposed, cover the area with sugarless gum to protect it. This can help prevent further damage until you can see your dentist.
When to Seek Immediate Care
Some situations require urgent care, such as:
- Facial swelling with a toothache
- Uncontrollable bleeding
Dealing with a Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, rinse it with water and gently try to replace it in the socket. If this isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk or slightly salty water. Ideally, you should see your dentist within a couple of hours to increase the chances of restoring the tooth.
Having the right knowledge and preparation can help you stay calm and manage a dental emergency effectively. Always follow up with your dentist as soon as possible for professional care.
Are dental issues holding you back? Take control of your oral health by booking an appointment with our experienced team at our Louisville dental office.