What do you do when you have a dental emergency? While it’s important to contact your dentist immediately if you have an urgent dental condition, you will always be the first responder. What you do in these situations may affect the overall outcome of your dental health.
If you’re experiencing any form of dental emergency in Elkin, NC, knowing how to manage it will give you the extra advantage you need to preserve your smile. This not only helps save your teeth from further complications but also allows for a less complex treatment when you visit the dentist.
Embark on your dental wellness journey with our emergency dentist in Elkin, NC, Dr. Manigault, as you explore the various ways you can handle an emergency situation that concerns your teeth.
What You Should Know About Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies are oral problems that require urgent attention. It’s important to know that not all dental problems are regarded as emergencies; however, if you’re experiencing oral bleeding that won’t stop, or pain that isn’t getting better despite taking medications, or you have broken facial bones, then you need emergency care.
Here are 5 First Aid Treatments for Common Dental Emergencies
Here are five DIYs for common dental emergencies that we see in Elkin, NC:
1. Toothache: Managing the Pain
Most dental emergencies often begin with a toothache, which may be due to cavities, infections, or gum disease. You can manage the pain by engaging in good oral hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing.
You can also manage toothaches with OTC pain relievers. However, it’s paramount that you see our emergency dentist in Elkin to help identify and address the root cause of the ache.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth: Responding Swiftly
If your teeth get knocked out, a swift response is required to increase the chances of successful re-implantation. We recommend you pick up the tooth by its crown while ensuring that you don’t touch the roots. But, if the tooth is soiled, gently rinse it with water and store it in milk or saliva to maintain its sustainability.
3. Abscessed Tooth: Looking Out for Infections
Tooth abscess often results from infections, which cause severe pain and can affect overall health. You may experience constant throbbing pain, swelling, and fever. You can ease the pain by gently rinsing the area with a warm salt solution and using OTC pain relievers.
However, it’s important to visit your dentist to help drain the abscess, prevent further complications, and prescribe the required antibiotics.
4. Cracked or Broken Tooth: Providing Immediate Response
A cracked or broken tooth requires swift action. So, if you experience one after an accident, first rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to ease swelling and pain. Afterward, seek prompt help from your dentist for a comprehensive examination and treatment.
5. Lost Crown or Dental Fillings: DIY Solutions
If you have a lost crown or dental filling, an effective DIY solution you can perform at home before reaching your dentist is to rinse your mouth with warm water and clean the crown. Dental wax or OTC dental cement can cover the exposed area. This will serve as a temporary solution.
Receive Prompt Emergency Dental Treatments in Elkin, NC
When faced with any of the common dental emergencies in Elkin, NC, staying informed, and acting swiftly may be all you need to avoid further complications and ensure a healthy smile. Mani Dental provides the necessary services you need for personalized care during an emergency. Book an appointment with our dental team to make your oral well-being a priority. Call us now for the confident smile you deserve.