If you have ever experienced a cracked tooth, severe pain, continuous bleeding, or another dental emergency you may understand how frightening it can be. You may not be sure who to call or where to go if an emergency arises. It can even be hard to determine what is considered an emergency and what can wait to be dealt with at an appointment. If you are suffering from an emergency, it is important to know how to treat it until you are able to get into the office to see a dentist.
When Do You Have a Dental Emergency?
- Continuous bleeding
- Loose or cracked permanent tooth with pain
- Swelling
- Severe Toothaches
What Can Wait?
- Filling or bridge that is damaged
- Loose or cracked tooth without pain
- Damaged retainers
- Mild toothache
Who Do You Contact?
If you are experiencing severe pain, you can visit the emergency room. If you are experiencing mild pain, you can contact your dentist to set up an appointment or to ask any questions that you may have regarding your condition. You can also call your dentist if you are having intense pain or irritation and need advice on what to do at home or who to contact.
What Should You Do at Home?
After contacting your dentist, you can try some at-home remedies to help reduce your pain until you can visit a dentist or get to an emergency room. If you are experiencing excruciating pains, it is recommended that you visit the emergency room right away. If you are at home you can dissolve a small amount of salt in boiling water and rinse your mouth with it. This can help to reduce swelling and irritation. If you have a cut or pain in your mouth you can rinse it with salt water or hydrogen peroxide to reduce pain. The hydrogen peroxide can prevent bacteria.
