Dental Care Tips from an Emergency Dentist

There are times where an emergency dentist is needed and is a much better solution than taking a trip to the ER. Traditional doctors are trained to handle a variety of emergencies but are not trained in how to provide dental care.  This is a specialty that requires years of training.  If you have a bad toothache or your tooth has been knocked out, a trip to the dentist is what you need in order to receive treatment.Getting into an accident and having your tooth damaged can be both frightening and painful.  There are, however, steps that you can take at home immediately after the accident which can reduce the pain and help to save your tooth.  Here are some steps to follow.

• Rinse your mouth.  If your mouth has been injured in any way, start by rinsing with warm water.  This way you can spit out the extra blood and help to keep your mouth clean.
• Reduce the swelling.  Apply a cold compress to your face near the area where the tooth was injured.  This will help to reduce the swelling and pain associated with the accident while waiting to see an emergency dentist.
• Protect your damaged tooth.  If your tooth has become cracked or chipped, the exposed area can be painful.  This is especially true if the root is exposed.  The slightest thing touching it, including air, can be incredibly painful.  While waiting for your appointment to start, apply gauze around your tooth so that nothing can touch it.
• Preserve your lost tooth.  If your tooth has been knocked out or has fallen out, you may be able to save it.  The key is to find it first.  Look around you and once the tooth has been found, rinse it in warm water without scrubbing anything off of it.  The tissues may be needed by the dentist. After rinsing, place the tooth into a cup of milk so that the calcium can help to preserve it prior to your appointment.  Even with the milk, time is of the essence so make sure that you are treated right away.
• Prevent a toothache.  Many toothaches are actually caused by food becoming stuck in between teeth or inside of a cavity.  If you are in pain, start by brushing and flossing your teeth to remove anything that may be stuck.  Wait a few minutes and if the pain goes away – excellent.  Otherwise, call and make an appointment.  Taking this easy step first, may save you the drive.

You can help to prevent a toothache or tooth from becoming damaged by visiting the dentist twice a year for teeth cleanings.  Healthy teeth and gums are naturally stronger so when they become bumped or knocked into; they are less likely to become damaged or to fall out.  Oral infections expose your teeth to becoming damaged, so preventative care is the key.  If you find yourself in need of an emergency dentist, call Star Dental at (408) 247-3740.

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