Dental emergencies can strike unpredictably at any time. Essential professional dental care aside, you can manage these situations initially at home.

Toothaches
Toothaches, a common dental problem, can be managed initially by rinsing your mouth with warm water. Over-the-counter pain relievers may offer temporary relief. However, you must avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums near the aching tooth to prevent potential gum tissue damage.

Chipped or Broken Teeth
If you chip or break a tooth, rinse your mouth and any broken pieces with warm water. If bleeding occurs, apply gauze to the area for approximately 10 minutes. To reduce swelling and alleviate pain, apply a cold compress to the external mouth area near the broken tooth.

Knocked-Out Tooth
When a tooth gets knocked out, time becomes critical. Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse it with water if dirty, but avoid scrubbing or removing attached tissue fragments. If possible, reinsert the tooth into its socket, ensuring correct orientation. If that’s not feasible, store the tooth in a small container of milk or an ADA Seal of Acceptance-bearing tooth preservation product. Seek immediate professional dental care.

Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown dislodges, seek dental consultation immediately. If you can’t access immediate dental care and experience pain, soothe the sensitive area using clove oil applied with a cotton swab.

While these home strategies can help you handle dental emergencies temporarily, they don’t replace professional dental care. Always seek consultation with a dentist at the earliest opportunity to prevent further complications and receive appropriate treatment. This emphasizes the importance of a proactive approach towards oral health. If you are from the Greater Toronto Area and are looking for a dentist, Dr. Salim Kapadia Dental Centre is accepting new patients. Book an appointment with our multi-award-winning dental office: https://drsalimkapadiadental.com/online-appointments/