Did you know that 1 in 6 Americans suffers a dental emergency every year? Accidents and injuries can happen with no warning. Are you prepared for a dental emergency? If you’re not, don’t worry because many people aren’t either. However, you don’t want to lose valuable minutes searching for gauze pads, gloves, and other necessary items for oral health emergencies. Here’s how you can plan ahead by creating a dental emergency kit.
Preparing a Dental Emergency Kit
Dental emergencies can take many forms, so it is best to include a variety of items that may be necessary for common situations. Here are the most important items for your dental emergency kit:
- Dental Mirror
- Floss
- Toothbrush
- Dental Wax
- Temporary Restoration Material
- Gauze
- Gloves
- Small Container
- Pain Medication
- Cotton Swabs
- Dental Saline Solution
- Cold Compress
Besides gathering supplies, take a few minutes to research emergency dentists in your area. It’s better to have a phone number handy in case the unexpected should happen.
Handling Common Dental Emergencies
Do not delay contacting an emergency dentist for treatment or you might lose your tooth. In addition to scheduling an appointment, here’s how to manage the most common dental emergencies at home until you see your dentist:
- Toothaches: Take an over-the-counter pain reliever and eat soft foods. Rinse your mouth with salt water to reduce pain and inflammation. It is also a natural antiseptic to kill bacteria. Sleep in an elevated position to prevent blood from pooling in your head, which will help you avoid a throbbing toothache.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Hold your tooth by the crown and carefully rinse it with cool water. Do not scrub or dry it. Don’t use any soaps or cleaners. Gently insert your tooth back into its socket and bite on a piece of gauze to hold it in place. If you’re not successful, place your tooth in a container of dental saline solution to preserve it while you head to your dentist.
- Chipped Tooth: Avoid chewing with your tooth until after it has been repaired. Don’t have any hot or cold foods and drinks to prevent sensitivity. You can take an over-the-counter pain reliever to manage discomfort.
- Object Caught in Teeth: Never use sharp or metal instruments to free an object stuck in your teeth. Instead, use dental floss to free it.
- Lost Restoration: A small dab of toothpaste can create a temporary seal to hold your restoration in place until your appointment. Eat soft foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
Your emergency dentist will get you into the office quickly to assess the situation. They’ll create the personalized plan you need to stop your pain and restore a healthy, beautiful smile.
About Dr. Les Latner
Dr. Latner earned his dental degree from the Washington University School of Dental Medicine and has continued his training in pediatric dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and dental emergencies. He is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. Book an appointment online or call his office at (310) 907-7987.