Whether it’s a sports-related injury, biting into something hard, or just an unfortunate mishap, knowing how to handle the situation can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and long-term damage.
While your first call should always be reaching out to an emergency dentist in Berwick, there are some steps you can take to ease the pain and damage until you can get to the clinic.
Tips for Dealing with Dental Emergencies
Knocked-Out Tooth
Whether it’s from a cricket ball or an accidental elbow, knocked-out teeth require immediate attention.
• Stay Calm: The first thing to do is keep your cool. • Handle with Care: Only touch the crown (top) of the tooth. Avoid touching the root. • Clean Gently: Rinse the tooth with milk or a saline solution if it’s dirty. Don’t scrub or use tap water. • Reinsert if Possible: If you can, and it’s an adult tooth, try to place it back in its socket. Otherwise, keep it moist. You can also store it in milk or wrap it in plastic wrap until you get to the dentist.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Common culprits for a cracked tooth are hard lollies or a rough tackle.
• Rinse: Clean your mouth gently with warm water.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relief can help. Ensure you follow the recommended dosage and avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.
• Eat Soft Foods: Try to avoid biting down on the affected tooth.
Toothache
One of the most common dental emergencies is the dreaded toothache resulting from a cavity, gum disease, or an infection.
• Clean: Ensure there’s no food caught between the teeth. Rinse with warm water and try gently flossing.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep away from very hot or cold foods and drinks.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: This can help temporarily.
Bitten Tongue or Lip
A surprising number of people experience this more often than you’d think.
• Clean: Gently wipe the area and rinse your mouth with cold water.
• Cold Compress: Reduce swelling by applying a cold pack or even a bag of frozen peas.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter solutions can help but ensure it’s suitable for internal injuries.
Lost Filling or Crown
Don’t stress too much; these can usually be fixed up right as rain.
• Keep the area Clean: Ensure that the area is clean. You can rinse with warm water.
• Save the Crown: If your crown comes off, keep it safe and bring it to the dentist.
• Temporary Relief: Dental wax or even sugar-free gum can be used to cover the exposed area temporarily.
Abscess or Swelling
Swelling can be a serious issue indicating an infection.
• Salt Water Rinse: Rinse your mouth with a warm salt water solution several times a day.
• See a Dentist ASAP: An abscess can lead to more significant health issues if not addressed.
Book Your Consultation with A Dentist Now!
Emergencies are never fun, especially when they concern your pearly whites. But with the advice above, you can manage the situation until you see your dentist.
Remember, these are only temporary solutions. It’s crucial to see a dental professional as soon as possible to address the underlying issue. And of course, regular check-ups are the best way to minimise emergencies arising from poor dental health.
Embark on your journey towards a beautiful and healthy smile by searching for “Woodleigh Waters Dental Surgery” or “Emergency Dentist in Berwick” or “Berwick Dentist” on Google. Your teeth will certainly thank you for it!