Busy schedules often result in families that are pulled in many different directions. It also means it is often easy to ignore seemingly minor problems with the teeth or gums. Dental issues can become serious if not treated, which means they shouldn’t be ignored. While the prospect of emergency dental care may sound expensive, waiting to address an emergency can result in the need for costlier treatments later. If you are in the Scarborough area and experience a dental emergency, here are some ways to alleviate discomfort while waiting for treatment.
Common dental emergencies seen in Scarborough:
- Toothaches
- Knocked-out teeth
- Broken teeth
- Lost crowns or fillings
- Abscesses
What to do for a toothache
If you are experiencing the pain of a toothache, try rinsing with tepid water and removing any food that may have become stuck between teeth. A cool compress on the outside of the cheek can help with swelling. Call the office as soon as you can to schedule a visit.
What to do for a broken tooth
If you can find any pieces of the tooth, make sure to save them. Rinse the mouth and any pieces with tepid water. Use gauze with gentle pressure to stop bleeding and a cool compress on the lip or cheek can reduce swelling. Call the office as soon as possible for an appointment.
What to do for a knocked-out tooth
If you have the tooth, make sure to handle it by the crown, and rinse it with water, careful to leave any tissue in place. Try placing the tooth back in the socket, if that is too difficult, put it in a small container of milk. It’s important to call the office immediately, as the best chance of saving a tooth occurs within an hour.
What to do for a lost crown
Try placing the crown back on the tooth and keeping it in place with dental cement, denture adhesive, or tooth paste. Clove oil around the sensitive area of the tooth can help with pain. Call the office as soon as possible for an appointment.
