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Dealing With A Dental Emergency
A dental emergency can come at any time and usually when we least expect it. Whether a fly ball to the face or something as simple as walking into the door, it is then that we become aware of just how vulnerable our faces are. During those first critical moments, it is important for the health of your tooth to know what to do if it becomes cracked or dislodged from your mouth. What you do from the moment of injury determines whether the repair is simple or is quite serious and can cause you to lose your tooth! At Mercer Island Dentistry, we know seconds matter when it comes to taking care of and preserving teeth that may have become broken or removed.
What To Do During A Dental Emergency
With time being of the importance, recognizing the magnitude of the oral issue quickly is critical to the preservation of the tooth. It is critical that you do not waste precious seconds wondering what to do in the event of a dental emergency - if you notice any issues with your mouth that are hindering your ability to breathe, get yourself to the emergency room immediately!
Knocked Out Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, the first thing you should know is that you should not touch it by the root, as that can cause permanent damage to the delicate region of your tooth. It has sensitive cells that can be easily damaged if not treated properly. The crown, which is the side you usually see of your tooth, may be picked up carefully between the fingertips. If there is debris, rinsing it off with just a little bit of milk can help to cleanse anything that may have attached to it. If you do not have any milk on hand, you may store the tooth in a small glass with a bit of your saliva in it.
Please know that keeping the tooth moist is essential to its restoration. You can place any pieces of the tooth in the socket or against your cheek and gums, then close the mouth gently to hold it in, to store it in your mouth while you are en route to our office to get it fixed. Try not to panic! Most can be saved if brought in within thirty minutes of removal, and it has been noted that even as long as an hour still has a chance, so don't hesitate to call as soon as there has been an accident!
What To Do If You Crack A Tooth
Although a cracked tooth isn't nearly as critical as one that has been knocked out, it still needs an emergency dental visit. When you can, rinse your mouth out thoroughly with warm water until you can no longer see blood. A cold compress can work wonders on reducing the level of pain and swelling you may experience.
Understanding what to do during a dental emergency can make all the difference between preserving your tooth and losing it. If you believe you may have sustained a dental emergency, do not delay; give us here at Mercer Island Dental a call at (206) 232-3600 right away for a same-day emergency dental appointment.
