Dental Emergencies
When to Contact a Dentist
In the event of dental emergencies such as a broken tooth causing pain or swelling, trauma-induced bleeding, or a tooth that has been knocked out, it’s crucial to seek immediate help. The Santa Clara County Dental Society in San Jose, CA, advises contacting a dentist right away to prevent further complications. Quick and appropriate action can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment and recovery. For more guidance on specific situations, our team is here to provide support and recommendations.
Tooth Knocked Out
Call a Dentist
Gently rinse off the tooth and try to re-implant it yourself. If a tooth is out of the socket for more than an hour, the chance of it properly reattaching decreases significantly. Even with immediate re-implantation, there’s only about a 50/50 chance of long-term survival. A dentist can x-ray the tooth to ensure it’s positioned correctly and bond it in place for stability. Do not scrub the tooth, as this will damage the fibers needed for re-implantation. If you can’t replant the tooth, keep it moist in the patient’s mouth or a cup of milk until you can see a dentist.
Cut Lip Or Trauma To The Face
Call a Doctor
If you suspect you need sutures on your face, it’s best to see a medical doctor first. Once the medical situation is addressed, a dentist can then examine your teeth. If a tooth has been knocked out, it needs immediate repositioning. Typically, applying a cold, wet, clean washcloth with pressure will stop any bleeding. However, if the cut is deep, apply a compress and head to a hospital emergency department.
At Home Treatments
Chipped Tooth
Rinse the area with warm water. If there’s no sensitivity to pressure or cold air and no bleeding, it’s likely not deep. Smooth it off or see a dentist at your earliest convenience to ensure there are no sharp edges or pulp exposure.
Toothache
These symptoms vary: hot or cold sensitivity, pressure sensitivity, sharp or dull pain, and duration from brief (under 30 seconds) to long-lasting (over 5 minutes). Dull, achy pain likely indicates a gum issue needing a cleaning. Sharp, brief pain suggests an exposed root or chipped tooth. Gradual improvement may involve the nerve or a gum issue.
Temporary Crown Off
You can often avoid a trip to the dentist by cleaning and repositioning a temporary crown yourself. Lightly rinse the area and place the temporary crown back on the tooth. While not urgent, it should be replaced within a couple of days to avoid leakage and reinfection. Use dental adhesive powder or toothpaste to hold it in place until your dental visit.
Hot & Cold Sensitivity
If the pain lasts only a few seconds, it may be due to a small exposure near the root. Avoid hot and cold, and apply Vaseline to protect the tooth temporarily. If the pain persists for over a minute, the nerve might be infected, potentially requiring a root canal. If Advil or Tylenol doesn’t help, this is likely necessary. Never apply aspirin directly to mouth tissue, as it can cause burns.
TMJ Pain
Begin with gentle jaw exercises to increase mobility, and apply warm compresses to reduce muscle tension. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage inflammation and discomfort. Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to prevent jaw clenching. Soft foods and avoiding chewing gum are advisable. Additionally, maintain good posture to minimize strain on the jaw joint.
Filling Fell Out
Replacing a filling generally requires a dental visit, though it’s usually not an emergency. Most fillings are shallow enough to wait a couple of days if needed. Use your judgment and call for advice if unsure. Temporarily protect the area with wax, gum, or Vaseline. Pharmacies offer thick ointments to block food from entering the opening until your appointment.
TMJ Cheek Bite
This is a common trauma and can sometimes be alleviated by “rounding” off the corners of the opposing teeth to prevent pinching the tissue between them. Placing a cotton roll or gauze in the cheek area helps push the cheek away, allowing the area to heal without further trauma.
Something Stuck Between Your Teeth
First, gently and carefully use dental floss to remove the object. Tie a small knot in the middle of the floss and pull it through the contact area; this often dislodges small pieces of food or debris. Avoid using sharp objects like pins to poke between your teeth, as they can cut your gums or scratch the tooth surface. If the obstruction remains, see your dentist.