Dental emergencies occur quite frequently, but the severity can differ from case to case. Most dental emergencies involve pain in a tooth or the surrounding tissues. If left untreated, a dental emergency can lead to serious infection, so it’s important to seek out treatment as soon as possible from a dentist in Bundoora. Here are six common dental emergencies and some information on how to handle each of them.
Knocked Out Tooth
If you’ve experienced a sharp blow to the face or jaw, a tooth may have fallen out of its socket. This requires urgent attention, as the tooth can be reinserted by a dentist if attempted soon enough. The best way to preserve a tooth is to pick it up by its top but not touch the root of it. Rinse it off and place it in a small container, then see a dentist immediately for your best chance of saving it.
Chipped or Cracked Tooth
If a tooth is chipped and it doesn’t hurt, it may not need immediate attention. However, if the tooth is cracked, you must seek advice from a dentist in Bundoora as soon as possible. In the meantime, you should clean your mouth by rinsing it thoroughly with warm water. If swelling occurs, hold a cold compress to the area. Your dentist may recommend having an X-ray to diagnose the problem.
Broken or Lost Filling
If you suddenly break or loose a filling, try not to swallow it. To reduce sensitivity, you can use clove or coconut oil. Avoid eating any foods that force you to bite down. Instead, opt for soft foods like jelly or yoghurt. For a permanent fix, visit a dentist in Bundoora who can repair the filling.
Painful Toothaches
Painful toothaches occur when the central part of the tooth becomes inflamed. This can cause much irritation to the mouth and prevent you from eating solid foods. If not treated by a dentist promptly, a toothache can result in the tooth becoming infected. Until you can get to a dentist in Bundoora, rinse with warm, salty water to ease the pain. Flossing can also help remove any unwanted bits of food that may be causing irritation.
Broken Braces
A broken brace bracket is a common issue for many people who wear braces. They can break for a number of reasons, including eating solid foods or brushing your teeth too vigorously. If the bracket has completely detached, remove it and take it to a dentist in Bundoora for reattachment. If the wire is still attached, leave it. If the wire is sticking out, push it back into place with a cotton bud.
Inflamed Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth become inflamed when there’s not enough room for them to grow. This can cause a painful partial eruption where a flap of gum tissue sits next to the tooth and harbours bacteria. This condition is called pericoronitis. Symptoms include swollen gum tissue, a bad taste in mouth, muscle spasms, a discharge of pus, and swollen lymph nodes. A dentist in Bundoora can manage this condition by prescribing antibiotics and removing the wisdom teeth.
