Top 7 Tips to Follow During a Dental Emergency

Introduction

Dental emergencies can occur without warning, causing significant discomfort and anxiety. Knowing how to handle these situations can help you preserve your oral health and reduce complications. Here are seven essential tips from Dr. Sara Makary to guide you through dental emergencies.

1. Stay Calm

Keeping calm is crucial. Panicking can worsen the situation and make it harder to manage the situation effectively.

2. Assess the Situation

Determine the severity of the emergency and whether immediate professional care is necessary.

3. Contact Your Dentist

Reach out to Northpoint Dental as soon as possible. We have protocols in place to handle emergencies as they arise. We can often take you in for an appointment within an hour or two.

4. Manage Pain

Use over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen to manage pain until you can see the doctor. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums or teeth.

5. Floss Gently

If there is debris between your teeth, floss gently to remove it.

6. Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth Properly

If a tooth is knocked out, hold it by the crown and rinse it with water if dirty. Try to place it back in the socket or keep it in milk until you reach the dentist.

7. Protect a Broken Tooth

For broken or chipped teeth, rinse your mouth with warm water and cover any sharp edges with dental wax or temporary filling material.

Follow Up Care

After initial emergency treatment, schedule a follow-up appointment with Dr. Makary to ensure proper healing and to address any further issues. Northpoint Dental also offers cosmetic solutions like veneers, bonding, and crowns to restore your smile.

Emergency Dental Kit

Consider keeping an emergency dental kit at home and in your car. Include gauze pads, a small container with a lid, over-the-counter pain medication, numbing gel, dental wax, and contact information for Northpoint Dental.

Conclusion

Dental emergencies are stressful, but with these tips and prompt professional care from Dr. Sara Makary at Northpoint Dental, you can protect your oral health and minimize complications. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can also help prevent future emergencies.

For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit Northpoint Dental’s website.