Dental Pain - Pacific Northwest Dental - Dentist Beaverton

Don’t Let Pain Wait: A Guide to Handling Dental Emergencies

March 7, 2023

“Ouch! We’ve all experienced that sudden and unbearable toothache or broken crown while enjoying a meal, leaving us in agony and panic. Whether it’s due to an accident, injury, or infection, dental emergencies can occur at any time without warning. And when they do strike, the last thing you want to do is wait for relief. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on how to handle dental emergencies so that you can act quickly and confidently during these stressful situations. So sit tight and read on as we share some valuable tips and tricks to help you tackle those unexpected tooth troubles head-on!”

Dental emergencies can be painful and scary, but they don’t have to be. With a little know-how, you can handle dental emergencies like a pro.

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about handling dental emergencies. From how to identify a dental emergency, to when to see a dentist, we’ve got you covered.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!

Causes of Dental Emergencies

There are many causes of dental emergencies, but the most common is tooth decay. Tooth decay can occur when plaque buildup on the teeth after eating or drinking sugary foods and drinks. This plaque can form a hard, sticky layer that eventually leads to cavities. If left untreated, cavities can cause pain and infection. Other causes of dental emergencies include gum disease, toothaches, and jaw pain.

Symptoms to Look Out For

If you have a dental emergency, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. There are a few different types of symptoms that can indicate that you have a dental emergency:

1. Pain: This is the most common symptom of a dental emergency. If you are experiencing pain, it is important to seek treatment right away.

2. Bleeding: If you are bleeding from the mouth, this could be a sign of a serious problem. Seek treatment immediately.

3. Swelling: If your face or mouth is swelling, this could be a sign of an infection. Seek treatment right away.

4. Broken tooth: If you have a broken tooth, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid further damage and pain.

When To Seek Emergency Care

If you experience any of the following dental problems, don’t hesitate to seek emergency care:

-A tooth that has been knocked out

-Severe pain in your teeth or gums

-Excessive bleeding from your gums

-A swelling in your face

At Home Remedies

When a dental emergency strikes, it can be difficult to know what to do. Should you go to the hospital? Should you see your dentist? What can you do at home to ease the pain?

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing you should do is call your dentist. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action. If you can’t get to your dentist right away, there are some things you can do at home to ease the pain.

Gargle with salt water: This will help reduce inflammation and swelling.

Take over-the-counter pain medication: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help with pain and inflammation.

Apply a cold compress: This can help reduce swelling.

Use dental floss or an interdental brush: If you have something stuck between your teeth, gently flossing or brushing the area can help remove it. Be careful not to damage your gums in the process. If you’re in pain, don’t hesitate to seek professional help from your dentist.

Safety Tips for Handling an Emergency

It’s important to know what to do in the event of a dental emergency. Here are some tips:

If you have a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water and use floss to remove any food particles that may be caught between your teeth. If the pain persists, contact your dentist.

If you have a chipped or broken tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the area to reduce swelling. Contact your dentist as soon as possible.

If you have an object caught between your teeth, try to gently remove it with floss. If you can’t remove it, contact your dentist.

If you have a loose tooth, try not to wiggle it too much. Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the area. Contact your dentist as soon as possible.

When to Call the Dentist/Emergency Room

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, time is of the essence. You should call your dentist or go to the emergency room immediately.

Dental emergencies can include:

– Toothache that is severe and/or lasts longer than two days

– Swelling in your mouth, face, or jaw

– A broken tooth or a tooth that has been knocked out

– Bleeding from your gums that doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure

– A piece of metal, glass, or other object stuck in your teeth or gums

– Persistent pain after a dental procedure

Source: Smiles Dental Group

Conclusion

Dental emergencies can be scary, but we hope this guide has helped you understand how to handle them. Never hesitate to call your dentist in the event of an emergency; they are there to help and will do their best to get you back on the path toward a healthy mouth. Don’t let pain wait – always seek out medical attention as soon as possible if you experience any type of dental emergency. Taking care of these issues right away will save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run!

When should I see a dentist for an emergency?

If you are experiencing severe pain, have an infection, are bleeding excessively, or have lost a tooth, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.

What can I do for dental pain at home?

There are a few things you can do to help ease dental pain at home. Rinse your mouth with warm water and take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen. You can also apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help numb the pain.

What should I do if I have a toothache?

If you have a toothache, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Toothaches can be caused by many things including decay, infection, or an object caught between your teeth. A dentist will be able to identify the cause of your toothache and provide treatment.