7 Common Dental Emergencies and How To Prevent Them

Dental emergencies can be scary, but knowing how to respond appropriately can make all the difference. We listed down the seven most common dental emergencies and how to prevent them.

Toothache: While some toothaches can be managed without emergency treatment, others require immediate attention. Apply a cold compress and call a dental clinic for emergency care. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing is key to preventing tooth decay and cavities.

Chipped or broken teeth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and relieve pain. Seek emergency dental care and be conscious of biting down on hard foods and participating in activities that can cause teeth to chip or break.

Knocked-out tooth: Pick up the tooth by the crown and rinse off the root only if it's dirty. You may be able to put the tooth back in place, but be careful not to push it into the socket. If you can't reinsert the tooth, place it in a small cup with milk or water with a pinch of salt and seek emergency dental care.

Lost filling or crown: Avoid fixing the tooth yourself and seek emergency dental care to avoid further damage or reinfection. You can stick a piece of sugarless gum into the cavity or bring the restoration to your dentist to be re-applied or fitted with a new crown.

Broken orthodontics: If a wire breaks or sticks out and pokes your cheeks and gums, try pushing it into a more comfortable position and cover the exposed end with orthodontic wax, a small cotton ball, or a piece of gauze. Seek emergency dental care if necessary.

Abscess: A painful, swollen spot on your gums can indicate an infection. Rinse your mouth with water and apply ice for temporary relief. Seek emergency dental care to prevent the spread of infection.

Bleeding and pain after tooth extraction: Place a gauze pad over the extraction site and apply pressure by biting down on it to stop bleeding. Avoid activities that promote bleeding and call your dentist if bleeding and pain persist.

Preventing dental emergencies starts with good oral hygiene and avoiding risky activities that can lead to tooth damage. Use a mouthguard while participating in sports, think before biting into hard foods, and avoid chewing on non-food items. Quick and proper action can save your teeth and prevent long-term damage. If you need urgent dental services in Cincinnati, contact Blue Ash Dental Group.