Accidents happen when we least expect them. One moment, you could be strolling through the aisles at the grocery store, thinking about what to make for tonight’s family dinner – and in the next, you could slip on a small puddle near the frozen foods section and hit the ground hard! Suddenly, your tooth is knocked loose and you do not know what to do. If you want to be prepared in case the unexpected happens, be sure to read the following information from an emergency dentist in San Marcos.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is a serious accident that results in a fractured or knocked out tooth or lacerated gums or other soft tissues in the mouth. Whether the accident happens by slipping on an oil slick in the garage or from a collision while playing recreational sports, you should contact an emergency dentist right away. If left untreated, severe mouth injuries can lead to serious health complications.
What to Do in Case of a Dental Emergency
It can be easy to panic when you seriously injure your teeth or gums, especially if there is a lot of blood. However, try to remain calm and – after first contacting an emergency dentist – follow the below advice to prevent further damage and ease the pain:
- Knocked out tooth – If possible, try to place the tooth back in its original socket and hold it there with a clean tissue. Otherwise, place the tooth in a small container filled with milk to preserve it and see a dentist as soon as you can.
- Cracked or broken tooth – Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold washcloth to reduce swelling. Collect and save the tooth pieces – your dentist may be able to reattach them.
- Severe Toothaches – Clean your mouth by rinsing with warm water.
- Cuts inside the mouth – Cuts inside the mouth can appear worse than they actually are due to heavy bleeding. Clean the lacerated area in your mouth with warm water and apply a cold washcloth to relieve swelling.
- Objects stuck in your mouth – Use floss to try to gently remove the foreign object. Never use a sharp or pointed instrument, as you could further injure your mouth.
Knowing how to react in the case of a dental emergency means you will be able to spring into action should the unexpected happen and you injure your mouth. Depending on the severity of the dental trauma, your response could make the difference between saving and losing a tooth! Follow the above tips to help ensure the best possible outcome from an unfortunate circumstance.
About the Author
A member of both the Texas Dental Association and the American Dental Association, Dr. J. Robert. Donnelly welcome patients from San Marcos, New Braunfels, Wimberley, Kyle and surrounding communities to San Marcos Gentle Dental for all their oral care needs – including patients with serious mouth injuries. To learn more about what to do in case of a dental emergency, visit the San Marcos Gentle Dental website or call the office at 512-396-5225.