Tooth or gum injuries and other dental emergencies shouldn’t be ignored; they should be dealt with right away. Ignoring a serious dental problem can raise the chance of lasting damage, as well a patient’s need for emergency dentistry near Chicago. Below, patients can look at more info on what to do when common dental issues appear.
1. Toothache: First, wash the mouth with lukewarm water and use floss to remove stuck food. If the mouth is swollen, use a cold compress applied to the outside of the affected area. Never put a painkiller against the gum near the affected tooth because it can burn delicate gum tissues, and see a dentist immediately.
2. Broken/chipped teeth: Save any broken pieces and rinse the mouth with lukewarm water. If the mouth is bleeding, apply clean gauze to the area until bleeding stops. Use a cold compress on the affected area to relieve pain and swelling, and see a dentist soon.
3. Forcibly removed tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse it if dirty. If possible, attempt to put the tooth back into its place; if not, put the removed tooth into a container of milk before heading to the dentist.
4. Partially removed teeth: Until the patient gets to the dentist, they should use a compress on the affected area. Take an OTC painkiller if required.
5. Lost fillings: Put a small piece of sugarless gum into the opening or use a dental cement. See a dentist as soon as is possible.
6. Broken braces/wires: If wires are poking the gum, tongue or cheek, the patient should use the eraser from a pencil to push the wire into a better position. If that can’t be done, cover the wire end with orthodontic wax or cotton until the next orthodontist’s visit.
7. Abscesses: These are infections around a tooth’s root or in spaces between gums and teeth. Abscesses can damage teeth and tissue if left untreated, and the infection can spread to other parts of the body. Because of the severe health risks, patients should see their dentist as soon as possible. In the meantime, the patient can rinse his or her mouth with a mild saltwater solution three times per day.
Dental emergencies can be scary, and they are often very uncomfortable. The steps given above won’t eliminate pain, but they can help patients make it until they can get to the dentist’s office for emergency dentistry near Chicago. Visit Chicago Dental Arts for more information.
