The holidays are about fun and family, but we know from experience that someone will end up having a tooth problem. Painful, broken, or knocked out teeth can ruin your holiday if you don't know what to do.
The following guidelines will help you get through most dental emergencies. If something happens that is not an emergency you can leave a message on our voice mail and we will call you when we are back in to schedule an appointment.
If You Break a Tooth
You will want to be careful not to use the tooth so that it doesn't break further. If it is not painful when it happens, you will probably not experience pain later.If it is painful, the damage may be deep enough that the nerve of the tooth is reacting. Temporary solutions include using a cotton ball with oil of cloves or a piece of chewed gum to insulate the area. Be very, very gentle so that nothing else breaks. Pharmacies can have products that will help, as well.
If your tooth is painful or feels like it is continuing to break, call as soon as possible. If you feel it can be kept stable and pain free until we are back in, leave a message or call us right away when the office opens again.
If a Tooth is Knocked Out
1. Try to save what you can of the tooth. Do not try to clean it or touch the roots.2. Try to gently put the tooth back in the socket and hold it in place. If this doesn't work, hold it in your cheek so that is still in saliva, but be very careful not to swallow it.
3. If that isn't working put the tooth in milk, saline, or your own saliva.
4. Get help immediately by contacting your dentist, an oral surgeon, or going to an emergency room.
If A Crown Comes Off
Most pharmacies carry temporary cement kits that will help you get the crown back in place for a short period of time. Do this only if you feel sure there is no danger of swallowing it if it comes loose again. DO NOT use Superglue or any other household adhesives.
Be careful not to use the tooth with or without temporary adhesive to avoid damaging it further. Call our office so that we can get you in quickly. Bring the crown with you so that it can be professionally re-cemented, making it safe and secure again.
If You Have a Toothache
Very painful or throbbing teeth need attention right away. The pain is a sign that something is seriously wrong or that there is an infection.
You can get temporary relief with over the counter pain relievers. Take them orally, do not place them directly on your gums as it won't help the pain and may cause irritation. If there is swelling, use an ice pack to help control it. You can also try flossing gently around the tooth to see if anything has become lodged between the tooth and the gums.
Call us right away so that they can assess the situation and help you be more comfortable.
If You Bite Your Lip or Tongue
Clean the wound gently with water and put ice on it to help prevent swelling. If it continues to bleed a lot after a few minutes, go to the dentist or emergency room. You may need stitches.
We wish all of you happy, emergency free holidays, but it's good to know that if something happens you will know what to do.
And one more thing, please don't drink and drive. It's not worth the risk.
