Dental Emergencies – From Knocked-Out Teeth to Severe Pain

When tooth trauma happens, a quick reaction and immediate treatment can often help preserve the condition of a person’s teeth. However, dental emergencies can present a variety of symptoms and circumstances that make it difficult to determine whether an injury is truly urgent. This article will help to clarify what types of injuries merit immediate attention and what steps should be taken.

Injuries to a person’s teeth are relatively common, with up to five million teeth knocked out in adults and children annually. Knocked-out teeth are considered to be a first-aid emergency, meaning that there is only a short window of time to retrieve the tooth, keep it in place, and receive treatment before the chances of successfully reattaching the tooth diminish.

First, the person must find their knocked out tooth, ideally rinsing it off to remove any dirt. When handling the tooth, it is important to avoid touching its root. Instead, it is best to grasp it gently by its crown (the chewing surface). If the tooth cannot be reinserted into its socket, it should be stored in low-fat milk or a saline solution. Do not store the tooth in standard tap water, as this will kill the cells that are necessary for reattachment.

It is also essential that a person receives immediate treatment from a dentist to ensure the tooth is not infected, and that the root and gum tissue are not fractured. For this reason, it is a good idea for a person to have a dental insurance plan that includes coverage for emergency visits.

Depending on the severity of the damage, a dentist will usually take X-rays to determine the extent of the injury. This will allow the dentist to come up with a treatment plan that will minimize pain and maximize the chances of saving the tooth.

While it is understandable that a person would want to treat any pain with an over-the-counter anti-inflamatory such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen until they can get into the office, it is important to let the dentist know exactly what medication has been used, and when. This can help the dentist to decide what anesthetic to use during the emergency visit to ensure a patient’s comfort. Schedule regular visits your local dental clinic in Northbrook for cleanings and examinations. These will help prevent cavities and other common dental issues that can be the root of emergency situations.