Common Dental Emergencies and Tips on How to Act

Accidents can happen. Sudden slips, hits to the face while playing sports, or biting into a snack like popcorn can chip or fracture a tooth and even result in losing one. When this happens, visiting an emergency dentist in Sumter, SC, right away can be crucial to saving the tooth and preventing further damage to your smile.

However, to act properly, it is key to understand the situation, the type of dental emergency at hand, and its potential risks.

What You Need to Know

Any oral health concern that needs to be addressed right away to relieve pain, stop additional damage, or save a tooth is considered a dental emergency. In these situations, taking quick action is crucial because it can effectively restore oral health and prevent more serious issues later on.

Some common dental emergencies you may encounter include:

Toothaches

The most common type of dental emergency is a toothache, which can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Often, persistent pain is a sign of an underlying problem, such as tooth decay or infection. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications, so it's essential to seek emergency dental services to determine the cause and provide relief.

How to Act:

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.  

• Make a saltwater rinse by combining 1/2 teaspoon of table salt with 1 cup of room-temperature water. Saltwater helps fight infection and reduce inflammation.

• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face for temporary relief.

Knocked-Out Teeth

Accidents or injuries can cause a tooth to get knocked out completely. While scary, this emergency needs an immediate response and proper care to increase the chances of restoring the tooth and avoid the need for restorative treatments.

How to Act

• Locate your missing tooth and pick it up by the crown (avoiding touching the root).  

• Use milk or water to gently rinse away any dirt or debris. Avoid scrubbing or squeezing the tooth as this could cause irreparable damage.  

• If it's possible and doesn't hurt more, try to place the tooth in its empty socket. If not, submerge the tooth in water or milk.

• Call your dentist right away. If reinserted within 30 minutes, the tooth may be saved!

Broken or Chipped Teeth

Broken or chipped teeth, whether caused by biting down on something hard or sustaining a facial injury, require immediate treatment to prevent further damage and restore functionality. However, with a few tips, you can ensure that your chipped tooth does not cause long-term dental issues.

How to Act

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and stop the bleeding.

• Apply a cold compress to the affected area to relieve swelling and pain.  

• Try to preserve any remaining tooth fragments you may have; your dentist may be able to do so.  

• Try to wait until you can see your dentist before consuming any food or liquids.

Lost Fillings or Crowns

Over time, wear and tear may cause crowns and fillings to come loose or fall out. This exposes your teeth's most vulnerable areas, making them more susceptible to decay and sensitivity.

How to Act

• Try to locate the crown or filling.

• Apply dental cement to the affected area to keep it sealed.  

• Use clove oil or over-the-counter solutions for temporary relief.

Find an Emergency Dentist in Sumter, SC, That Offers Same-Day Appointments

Dental emergencies are uncomfortable, unplanned, and stressful, but they’re very common. While no one wants to experience an accident, being prepared can be crucial to navigating these critical moments with ease.

Acting calmly and with knowledge can help reduce further damage, ease discomfort, and ensure the best possible outcome. However, visiting an emergency dentist as soon as possible is key. Reach out to Wesmark Family Dentistry and let’s treat your emergency as soon as possible!