Dental emergencies are never convenient, but our team at Beulah Family Dentistry is here to help! There are several types of dental emergencies, so we have provided a guide to the most common types. When faced with a need for emergency dental care, do not hesitate to call us at 850-706-5688. Keeping calm and getting prompt professional care are the best things you can do.
Toothaches
If you have a toothache, gently brush and floss the painful area, then rinse out your mouth with warm salt water to dislodge any trapped food between your teeth. If you are experiencing facial swelling, use a cold compress and ibuprofen or acetaminophen for temporary relief.
Cut Tongue, Lip, or Cheek
For bleeding, apply firm pressure with sterile gauze to reduce the chances of infection and complication. If the bleeding does not stop within 15 minutes, contact your dentist or physician immediately. Stitches may be necessary to close the wound.
Knocked Out Permanent Tooth
If a permanent tooth is knocked out completely, call your dentist immediately. Recover the tooth and hold it by the crown (top), not the root. Gently rinse away debris, but do not scrub the tooth to prevent damage to the roots. Put and hold the tooth in place using a clean piece of gauze or cloth. If reinsertion is impossible, carry the tooth in a cup of milk or put it between your cheek and gum. Do not remove any attached tissue, as they can help re-secure the tooth.
Broken, Cracked, or Chipped Tooth
If you chip or fracture a tooth, start by rinsing the area with warm salt water. If you can, recover any broken tooth fragments and save the salvaged tooth pieces in warm water. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the damage.