Maintaining your oral hygiene is important because it affects your overall health. As a matter of fact, poor dental habits are one of the leading causes of dental problems such as tooth decay, oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth loss. If these are not treated, they may develop into a dental emergency.
These are dental issues that require immediate attention. Data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that 46 percent of adults aged 30 years old and above in America have signs of gum disease, while 26 percent have untreated tooth decay.
As these two problems worsen, bleeding and lasting toothaches may be involved, both of which are considered emergencies. Some of the other common ones that likewise fall under this category include:
- Knocked-out tooth
- Chipped tooth
- Damaged dentures or braces
- Soft tissue injuries
- Severe dental infections
What Should I Do?
These situations require urgent treatment before they worsen or lead to other life-threatening conditions. So, if these circumstances happen to you, here are some things you can do.
Missing or Knocked-Out Tooth
Dentists need to put back a knocked-out tooth immediately because they only have a short window of time for the tooth to reattach to your gums. It can still be replanted as long as the patient gets to the dentist within an hour. First, locate the tooth and pick it up by its crown. After that, rinse it gently with water to remove the dirt. Lastly, keep it moist by putting it in a cup of fresh milk before bringing it with you to the dentist.
Toothaches
Toothaches are usually a sign that something is wrong with your teeth, gums, or mouth. So, for temporary relief, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, which will also serve as a disinfectant to the affected area. You may also use a cold compress and press it against your cheek to reduce swelling.
Bleeding
On the other hand, if your gums are bleeding, you may use gauze or a piece of cloth. Press it against the area for around 10 minutes until the bleeding stops. You may also use a cold compress or an ice pack to help restrict blood flow and stop the bleeding. If neither worked, go to your dentist right away, as this may be a sign of gum disease.
Get Help From Trusted Dental Experts
A dental emergency can happen anytime. So, it’s also your responsibility to prevent it from happening by practicing good oral hygiene habits. But if these things happen, call our trusted dental experts at Aegis Dental Group or Angola Dental Center. Our staff members in Goshen, Angola, and Warsaw are always ready to assist you with your urgent dental appointments.