From unexpected toothaches to sudden accidents, dental crises can be distressing. Thankfully, knowing how to handle these situations can make a difference. Here are four common dental emergencies in Dunedin and some quick tips on addressing them until you can see an emergency dentist.
1. Toothache
Immediate Actions: Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to ensure it's clean. Using dental floss, carefully remove any trapped food or debris. Do not put aspirin or any other painkiller against the gums near the aching tooth, as this can cause a burn.
Tips: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, but remember to stay within the recommended dose. Cold compresses applied to the outside of the mouth can also help reduce pain.
When to Contact Bell Hill Dental: If the pain persists for more than 24 hours or is severe, it's time to call your emergency dentist in Dunedin.
2. Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Immediate Actions: Rinse your mouth with warm water. Apply a cold compress outside the cheek area to reduce swelling.
Tips: Save any pieces of the chipped tooth. A dentist can sometimes bond these fragments back.
When to Contact Bell Hill Dental: As soon as you notice damage to your tooth, it's essential to contact Bell Hill Dental for emergency dental care to prevent further harm or complications.
3. Dislodged Tooth
Immediate Actions: If you can, locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown (top) without touching the root. Gently rinse it without scrubbing and, if possible, try to place it back in its socket. If this isn't possible, we recommend storing the tooth in milk, your saliva or a tooth preservation product.
Tips: Time is crucial in this situation. The sooner you can get to an emergency dentist, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
When to Contact Bell Hill Dental: We recommend seeking emergency dentistry in Dunedin immediately. Acting within the hour can often determine whether the tooth can be reimplanted successfully.
4. Lost Dental Filling or Crown
Immediate Actions: If you've lost a dental crown, try to slip it back over the tooth, using over-the-counter dental cement or toothpaste to help hold it in place. For dental fillings, keep the area clean and free from debris.
Tips: Avoid eating on the side of the lost filling or crown to prevent further damage.
When to Contact Bell Hill Dental: A lost tooth filling or dental crown can expose your tooth to further damage or decay. We encourage you to book an appointment with your emergency dentist in Dunedin as soon as possible to restore and repair the tooth.
Having a Dental Emergency in Dunedin?
In dental emergencies, prompt action can make all the difference. While the above tips offer temporary relief, remember they're not long-term solutions. Bell Hill Dental provides gentle emergency dentistry and is here to provide you with the professional emergency dental care you need. We invite you to contact our Dunedin emergency dentist as soon as possible.
