How to Handle Common Dental Emergencies

Let’s say you sprained an ankle. What are your first steps to dealing with this malady? Most of us probably would start with icing the ankle, elevating it, maybe adding some compression, and seeing a doctor if there’s bad swelling or pain.

But what about a dental emergency, like a broken tooth? What would be your first step here?

Don’t be surprised if you don’t know. Most of us aren’t that familiar with the recommendations. But after this post, you’ll be the go-to source if it happens.

So what exactly, is a real dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any event that warrants immediate care to save a tooth, stop bleeding from the mouth, or relieve tooth or mouth pain. Some of the most common examples we see at Salt Creek Family Dental include toothaches, cracked teeth and broken teeth. If you knock out tooth a tooth, call us immediately!

We see our fair share of dental emergencies here in Hinsdale IL, and we’re equipped to handle them all.

Tips for Treating Common Dental Emergencies

If you or a family member experience any of these, call us as soon as possible. We’ll let you know if you’ll need to see one of our dentists.

• Knocked-out tooth

For adults, place the tooth back in the socket without touching the root; if that’s not possible, place the tooth between your cheek and gums, in milk, or in ADA-approved tooth-preservation solution. It’s crucial to keep the tooth wet.

For children with baby teeth, come to our office as soon as possible; do not try to place the tooth in the socket.

• Cracked tooth

Rinse your mouth, and place an ice pack on your face to reduce the swelling. Wrap the tooth up in wet gauze or a towel, and bring it to the office.

• Toothache

Use warm water to rinse your mouth, and gently floss to remove any food. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers to help with the pain but please do not take them within 3-4 hours of your appointment. It may interfere with our diagnosis.

If you note any facial swelling (which may signal infection), come to our office or your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

• Bitten Tongue or Lip

Clean the area with a cloth, or rinse your mouth with water. Apply an ice pack to the area. If the bleeding doesn’t slow, come to our office or go to the ER.

Tips for Preventing Emergencies

Taking the right measures can keep your teeth safe. Here are a few easy precautions you and your family can take each day:

• Use scissors or a tool, rather than your teeth, to open or cut items

• Wear a mouthguard when playing high-impact sports, like football, basketball, and soccer

• Wear a helmet when using a bike, scooter, or skateboard

• Never chew hard foods, like ice and hard candy

• Help young children keep toys and small items out of their mouths

Need More Information?

Give us a call at 630-323-0060 or send us an email to office@SaltCreekFamilyDental.com. Everyone at Salt Creek Family Dental is happy to answer any questions you have!