Tooth pain can often start off mild but it can just as quickly escalate and become so excruciating you will need to make an emergency dental appointment. So what exactly constitutes an emergency?
Understanding Dental Emergencies
If you break a tooth while playing or eating something or your tooth gets loosened or knocked out of position, all of these would be categorized as dental emergencies. Most oral emergencies are painful and should be attended to as soon as possible not only to mitigate the pain but also to prevent further damage. Getting the necessary treatment within 30 minutes can make the difference between able to save a tooth and losing it.
What To Do Before You Visit The Dentist
If you have any bleeding in your mouth and the bleeding hasn’t stopped after 15 minutes of applying pressure to the area, you should not wait any longer before you see the dentist.
If your tooth is broken, keep it in a glass of water until you take it to the dentist. Keeping the tooth moist will help preserve it longer so your dentist may still be able to fix it back.
When handling a broken tooth, always remember that it should be held by the crown. Avoid touching the root as that can damage the cells, which could then impeded the necessary reattachment.
If your tooth is pushed out of position, try to gently push it to its normal position. It is most important not to force the tooth. Use very light pressure when trying to realign the tooth.
In case of a fracture, reduce the swelling with a cold compress and take an anti-inflammatory. Minor fractures can be easily treated but treating a major fracture can be a complex procedure as it often includes injury to the enamel as well as the surrounding pulp.
Always Call Before You Rush Off To The Clinic
Even if you have a major crisis and you feel like you just want to rush to the dentist, it is a good idea to call the emergency dentist before going there physically or call when you are on the way. If you can’t talk, ask someone to call for you if possible. Tell the dentist your problem so that you can be told whether to go immediately or not. Even if you give them a little notice, they may be able to fit you in between appointments so that you are taken care of as quickly as possible.
Source by Susan Solo
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