Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly, and knowing how to handle them can make a big difference in saving a tooth or minimizing damage. Whether it’s a chipped tooth or a severe injury, acting quickly is essential. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, it’s important to contact a dentist in Hickman as soon as possible. Here are some common dental injuries and steps to take while waiting for treatment.

Common Dental Injuries and How to Care for Them

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

• What to do: If a tooth gets knocked out, time is critical. Rinse the tooth gently with water, avoiding any scrubbing. If you can, try to place the tooth back into its socket. If that’s not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or a small cup of water with a pinch of salt.
• Next Steps: Contact our office immediately. The sooner we can treat you, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

2. Chipped or Cracked Tooth

• What to do: Save any broken pieces of the tooth if possible. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the affected area and remove any fragments. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
• Next Steps: Call us right away so we can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action for your tooth.

3. Object Stuck Between Teeth

• What to do: If you have an object stuck between your teeth, gently use dental floss to try and remove it. Avoid using sharp objects like pins or needles, as they can cause harm to your gums or teeth.
• Next Steps: If you can’t remove the object, contact our office. We can safely help you get rid of it without causing further damage.

4. Soft Tissue Injuries

• What to do: Injuries to your tongue, gums, or cheeks may result in bleeding. To control the bleeding, rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply a piece of gauze or a wet tea bag to the area. Hold the gauze for about 15 minutes.
• Next Steps: If the bleeding doesn’t stop, seek professional dental care immediately.

Tips to Prevent Dental Emergencies

• Always wear a mouth guard when participating in sports to protect your teeth from injury.
• Avoid chewing hard items like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy, as these can crack or chip teeth.
• Never use your teeth to open packages, cut tape, or perform other tasks. Always use scissors or the proper tool to avoid dental damage.

Get Help When You Need It

If you experience a dental emergency, don’t wait to get the care you need. Family 1st Dental – Hickman is here to provide immediate assistance and guide you through the necessary steps to protect your teeth. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment or get emergency care advice.