Dental emergencies can come when you least expect them. Whether it’s a sudden toothache or a broken tooth, knowing what to do can go a long way in helping you manage your oral health.
If you’re looking for emergency dentistry in Coral Springs, it is important to know who provides the best services, what they will do, among others. Here are some of the most common types of dental emergencies you may encounter, and more importantly, how to handle them in an effective manner until you reach a dentist.
1. Toothaches: The Unwanted Attention
A toothache is one of the most common dental emergencies that people have and or experience. A toothache could be a dull, steady pain or pain that is sharp and throbbing pain. Toothaches are typically a result of cavities, gum infections, or even sinus problems.
If you find yourself dealing with a toothache, here are a few things that you can do to help manage the pain before seeing a dentist:
- Rinse with warm water: Warm water can help clean the area and reduce some swelling.
- Pain reliever: Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can provide temporary pain relief.
- Cold compress: Place an ice pack on the outside of your cheek near the site of the painful tooth to help reduce swelling.
- Avoid hard or chewy foods: Sticking to soft foods avoids further irritation.
Consult your dentist right away if the pain does not go away in a day or it is getting worse. You can also receivefirst aid for dental injuries directly from them.
2. Chipped or Broken Tooth: Stay Calm and Move Fast
While no one expects to chip or break a tooth, it can happen in accidents (sports, chewing on hard things, or falling). This can be scary, don’t panic, here is how to handle the situation:
- Find and save the broken piece: If achievable, try your best to find the broken piece of tooth, and keep it submerged in a glass of milk or in a glass of water. If a dentist can reattach it this may help save the tooth.
- Rinse out mouth: Rinse the area out with warm water to get any debris.
- Control bleeding: If bleeding, keep direct pressure with a clean cloth or gauze.
- Cold compress on cheek: Use an ice pack on your cheek to help reduce swelling and some pain.
If you are in need of immediate assistance, go ahead and look up a dentist in Coral Springs for faster assistance.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth: Quick Action Needed
If a tooth gets knocked out, it’s essential to act quickly. Time is of the essence when trying to save the tooth, so follow these steps:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part), not the root.
- Rinse the tooth gently with water, but don’t scrub it. Don’t use soap or chemicals.
- Try to place the tooth back in the socket if possible. If you can’t, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a cup of milk, or between your cheek and gum.
- Get to the dentist immediately. The sooner you get treatment, the higher the chances of saving the tooth.
In many cases, a dentist can re-implant a knocked-out tooth if treated quickly. If you’re not sure where to go, look for a dentist for faster assistance.
4. Lost Filling or Crown: Stay Calm
If you lose a filling or crown, it can be a bit uncomfortable, but it’s not necessarily an emergency. Still, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
- Temporary Fix: If you have the crown, place it back on the tooth using over-the-counter dental cement, which you can buy at a pharmacy.
- Pain relief: If you’re experiencing discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
- Visit the dentist: You’ll need to see your dentist to have the filling or crown replaced. Don’t delay!
5. Abscess or Gum Infection: Don’t Wait
An abscess is a serious dental infection that can occur at the root of a tooth or in the gums. It typically results from untreated cavities or gum disease and can cause swelling, pain, and sometimes a fever. If you suspect you have an abscess:
- Rinse with saltwater: A saltwater rinse can help reduce bacteria and relieve pain.
- Avoid pressure on the affected area: Do not attempt to pop or drain the abscess yourself.
- Seek immediate dental care: An abscess can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Your dentist will likely need to drain the abscess and treat the infection.
For situations like this, it’s helpful to have a dental emergency checklist ready so that you can manage the situation effectively while waiting for professional care.
6. Sensitive Teeth: Minor but Troublesome
Some people experience tooth sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods. This is often due to enamel erosion or gum recession. To manage tooth sensitivity:
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth: These toothpaste varieties can help reduce sensitivity over time.
- Avoid acidic foods: Limit your intake of citrus, soda, and other acidic substances.
- Visit your dentist: If the sensitivity is severe or persistent, your dentist can recommend treatments like fluoride varnishes or desensitizing agents.
Don’t Wait for the Pain to Grow!
Dental emergencies are never fun, but knowing how to manage them can make a big difference. Always stay calm and take appropriate actions to reduce pain or prevent further damage until you can get professional help. If you’re in need of a dentist near you, MSD Dental Studio is here to help with all your dental emergencies. Whether it’s a chipped tooth or a sudden toothache, our team of experienced professionals will ensure you get the care you need.
Contact MSD Dental Studio today for immediate assistance and schedule your appointment!
