What’s Are The Most Common Dental Emergencies?

Dental emergencies come in different forms. A missing or broken tooth, gum disease, and tooth decay are some of the most common dental emergencies. It is true that the best way to prevent dental issues is through proper dental care. However, having a clear idea of how to handle dental emergencies can go a long way towards safeguarding your dental health and preventing long-term damage, when the worst happens.

What’s Are The Most Common Dental Emergencies?

With that in mind, continue reading below to find out more about the most common dental emergencies.

Toothache

A toothache is by far one of the most common dental emergencies. Pain can be a sign of various dental issues including tooth decay, oral injuries, and infections among others. In some cases, toothache can be managed at home without emergency treatment using over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen among others. However, you should never place any painkillers, including aspirin, against your gum or tissue as it can burn the gum tissue. Alternatively, you can apply a cold compress over the outside of your cheek.

Any cases of toothache accompanied by swelling require urgent dental care. When this occurs, be sure to seek emergency dental care immediately.

While toothache may be considered to be the most common dental emergency, other common emergencies include:

Broken or Chipped Tooth

In addition to being very painful, a chipped or broken tooth can ruin your smile. If the bleeding is excessive, use warm water to rinse out your mouth and place a piece of gauze at the affected area. Relieve pain and swelling by placing a cold compress on the area of your face closest to the affected tooth. Afterward, contact an emergency dentist to get the problem fixed as soon as possible.

Cracked Or Lost Filling

Lost or cracked fillings need to be fixed immediately to prevent further damage. This is mainly due to the fact that they are primarily used to restore the function and appearance of a previously damaged tooth. Avoid trying to fix the damaged tooth by yourself. Instead, cover the affected area with a piece of sugarless gum as you make arrangements for an emergency visit to the dentist’s office.

Knocked-out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth can cause bleeding and pain. The tooth can be put back in place depending on the nature of the injury; ideally, this has to be done within an hour. Pick up the knocked-out tooth by the crown and rinse off any dirt – without removing any attached tissue fragments. You can try to put the tooth back in place carefully, without forcefully pushing it into the socket. Alternatively, you can just place it in a cup of milk, as a way of preserving it for an emergency restoration procedure.

Conclusion

Keep calm and avoid panicking when dental emergencies occur. After giving yourself the necessary first aid, be sure to make an emergency visit to the dentist.

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What Are The Best Home Remedies For a Toothache?

If you’ve ever dealt with a toothache before, you know just how unpleasant and disruptive the experience can be. Whether the toothache manifests itself as a continuous, achy discomfort or sharp, sudden jolts of pain, your top priority is to find immediate relief.

What Are The Best Home Remedies For a Toothache?

While the best and most effective approach is to visit the dentist’s office, there are some tried and tested toothache remedies that you can try at home for immediate and temporary relief while you wait to receive professional treatment from a dentist.

(i) Salt water rinses
Saltwater rinses are one of the simplest but effective ways to get temporary relief from toothache pain. Saltwater is a natural disinfectant and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps to loosen debris lodged in cavities or between teeth, which can contribute to tooth pain.
To make a saltwater rinse, dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around in the mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. This can be repeated as often as needed.

(ii) Cold compresses
This remedy is particularly beneficial for toothaches caused by trauma or injury to the mouth. Applying cold compressess to the affected area is a highly effective way of reducing the swelling and inflammation that may be causing the toothache.
To try this remedy, wrap a bag of ice or a cold pack in a thin cloth and apply it to the cheek or jaw near the painful tooth. Experts recommend leaving it on for 15-25 minutes at a time, and repeat as needed.

iii) Clove oil
Clove oil stands out as an age-old solution to toothaches having been used as a pain relief technique for centuries. This natural oil contains eugenol, an analgesic and antibacterial compound that helps to numb the pain and reduce inflammation.
To use clove oil for toothache pain, apply a small amount of clove oil to a cotton ball and place it on the painful tooth.

iv) Garlic
For centuries, garlic has been used for its medicinal properties, including its potential to relieve tooth pain. Garlic contains allicin, a natural antibiotic that can help reduce inflammation and fight infection in the mouth.
To use garlic for toothache pain, crush a garlic clove to create a paste and apply it to the affected area. Alternatively, you can slowly chew a clove of fresh garlic.

(v) Over-the-counter pain relievers
Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help to provide temporary relief from toothache pain. However, it is important to follow the instructions and recommended dosage on the packaging. If the pain persists or worsens, it is important to seek dental treatment to address the underlying cause of the toothache.

It is important to reiterate that these remedies are only meant to provide temporary relief from toothache pain and should not be used in place of professional treatment. Toothaches usually have many underlying causes that tend to worsen if not addressed properly and promptly. This is why it is always important to consult a dentist in Baltimore whenever you experience a toothache.

What To Do If Your Dental Crown Comes Loose or Breaks

If your dental crown comes loose or breaks, there are some important steps that you should take to care for your tooth properly. A broken or loose crown is a serious dental issue that needs to be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further pain and possible infection.

What To Do If Your Dental Crown Comes Loose or Breaks

The first thing that you need to do is call your dentist to make an urgent appointment. Explain on the phone what has happened and ask to be seen as soon as possible. Occasionally, you can be seen on the same day. Don’t delay calling your dentist; the sooner you’re seen, the less damage to your tooth or crown.

If your crown is loose, don’t attempt to remove or repair it. Chew on the other side of your mouth and take care not to dislodge it. Let your dentist know as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your crown and your tooth.

If your dental crown breaks, salvage what pieces you can and make sure that you bring them to your dental appointment. Don’t remove any of the broken crown remaining on your tooth yourself; this could further damage your tooth and cause infection or more issues down the line. You can store the pieces in a small sealed sandwich bag to avoid losing any pieces.

If you are having pain due to your loose crown or broken crown, use a cotton swab with a bit of clove oil on it to apply to the sensitive area of the tooth. You can find clove oil in your local pharmacy or in the spice aisle of your local grocery store.

If you’re still having pain, you may also wish to consider using an ice pack on that side of your cheek. Some people may prefer to use heat, such as a heating pad, or hot pack, to alleviate the pain.

Avoid eating hard foods that may further damage your tooth; this should include not eating nuts or other foods that may further damage your tooth. Avoid biting into foods such as whole apples that may also further damage the tooth. Cut them into smaller pieces, and make sure to chew on the other side of the damaged or broken dental crown.

These tips should help ease your pain and discomfort should you break a dental crown or lose one. The sooner you take action, the sooner you’re going to recover.

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What Are the Most Common Pediatric Dental Emergencies?

A pediatric dental emergency can occur at any time, with or without the presence of any symptoms. It can be scary for both parents and their children. This is especially true if the tooth is fractured or completely broken. Handling a pediatric dental emergency in Baltimore can protect the child’s dental health.

What Are Typical Pediatric Dental Emergencies?

Typical pediatric dental emergencies include a tooth fracture, knocked out teeth, infected baby tooth, persistent toothache, and dental intrusion.

1. Tooth Fracture

A fracture in the tooth affects the main function of the tooth. It can cause an unusual feeling and discomfort in the child’s mouth. It can, therefore, reduce the child’s ability to chew and eat. The child may feel pain when chewing. So, if a child complains of severe tooth pain, it is best to take the child for a dental x-ray.

2. Knocked Out Tooth

A knocked out tooth, or dental avulsion, happens when a tooth is completely knocked out of the child’s mouth. Injuries and accidents can knock out a tooth. The child can lose a baby tooth or even a permanent tooth. If a baby’s tooth is completely knocked out during an accident, it requires immediate dental attention.

3. Infected Baby Tooth

A baby tooth can become infected due to an issue with the root of the baby tooth or poor oral hygiene. A bacterial infection, for example, can cause damage to the baby’s teeth and supporting gums. If left untreated, the infection could spread to other parts of the child’s body.

4. Persistent Toothache

Tooth infection, tooth decay, and dental injury are the most common causes of persistent toothache. A severe toothache can make it difficult for the child to speak, eat, and even sleep.

Pain medications make the child’s pain less severe. It is, however, wise to let a pediatric dentist examine the child’s mouth and treat the underlying cause of the persistent toothache.

5. Dental Intrusion

A dental intrusion occurs when a baby tooth or permanent tooth is pushed into the gumline or jawbone. The tooth will appear shorter than the neighboring teeth.

Children are mostly affected by dental intrusion. This is because the child’s alveolar bones are not as hard as those of an adult.

Conclusion

Regular dental checkups can help prevent these pediatric dental emergencies and protect the child’s teeth and jaw. It is very expensive to replace a lost tooth.

Pediatric dental emergencies can affect the child’s development and ability to speak, eat, and concentrate in school. So, parents should not put off taking their children to see a pediatric dentist.

If a parent takes their child to see a pediatric dentist as early as possible, the dentist is more likely to save their child’s tooth.

Tooth Infection: Is it an Emergency or Not?

A tooth infection, also known as a dental abscess, is a condition that can cause significant discomfort and potential health risks if left unaddressed. However, not all tooth infections necessitate immediate emergency attention. This brief read aims to discuss the signs of a tooth infection and determine whether it’s an emergency that calls for immediate dental care.

How to Recognize a Tooth Infection

A tooth infection usually develops when bacteria invade the innermost section of the tooth referred to as the pulp. This can result from cracked teeth, untreated cavities, or gum disease. Some of the common symptoms of a tooth infection include:

-Severe toothache
-Swelling in the gums, face, or neck
-A foul taste in the mouth resulting from pus drainage
-Increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods or beverages
-Difficulty chewing
-Fever

Emergency or Not?

Whether a tooth infection is an emergency or not depends on the infection’s severity:

(i) Severe Symptoms

If you experience extreme pain, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or a high fever seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms indicate a potentially severe infection that could spread to other parts of your body.

(ii) Mild to Moderate Symptoms

If you experience mild to moderate pain, localized discomfort, and swelling, it’s still advisable to seek medical attention. Call your dentist and schedule an appointment as soon as possible, but it may not necessitate a trip to the ER.

(iii) Consider Your Overall Health

If you have a heart condition, compromised immune system, or another chronic health issue, even a minor tooth infection can lead to a severe outcome. As such, it’s best to be cautious and seek prompt medical attention.

The Takeaway

Never take a tooth infection lightly as it can result in severe health complications. While not all infections are emergencies, severe symptoms call for prompt medical attention. Knowing the telltale signs, understanding your health condition, and observing good oral hygiene can help prevent tooth infections. If in doubt, do not be afraid to consult your dentist.

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Should You Call a Dentist If You Have Toothache?

A toothache refers to the pain that a person feels in and around their teeth and jaws. It is often the result of tooth decay, sensitive teeth, gingivitis, or breakdown of tooth enamel. And if a toothache is not treated, the pulp inside the tooth could become infected. So, a toothache could also mean the presence of a dental infection.

Should You See the Dentist If You Have Toothache?

A person should see a dentist if their tooth pain persists, have bleeding gums, redness occurs around their gums, inflammation increases, swelling occurs around their jaw or face, or they are feeling sick due to tooth pain. Also, if a person had recent trauma to their mouth or face, they should see the dentist.

Here is when a person should see a dentist if they have toothache:

Tooth Pain Persists

Persistent tooth pain is often the result of tooth decay. Once tooth decay reaches the nerves inside the tooth, the person will experience a persistent toothache. The infection can spread into the gum tissue and the jawbone surrounding the decayed tooth. A dentist can help stop the infection from spreading.

A Sudden or Severe Toothache

Do not ignore a sudden or severe toothache! It could be a sign of an infection or tooth abscess. A tooth abscess occurs due to an injury, prior dental work, or untreated dental cavity. The infection can lead to bone loss in the jaw, and it can spread into the bloodstream. A dentist can drain the tooth abscess and get rid of the infection.

Tooth Sensitivity Worsens

Having sensitive teeth can lead to severe tooth pain. Sensitive teeth are usually the result of exposed tooth roots, cracked teeth, tooth decay, or worn tooth enamel. The person will experience sharp, temporary pain inside their teeth while eating, brushing, or even drinking. However, if teeth sensitivity worsens, they need to see a dentist.

See a Dentist to Treat the Tooth Pain

Home remedies can provide temporary relief for tooth pain. However, they might not stop the spread of the infection. Seeing a dentist in Baltimore can help treat the underlying cause of the toothache and stop the spread of the infection throughout the body. It is best to see a dentist to treat the cause of the tooth pain.

How To Handle Broken Or Loose Dentures

What could cause dentures to loosen?

Over time, patients may experience some or a few of the following:

Jaw shrinking or changing over time.
Daily wear and tear.
Too much pressure applied during cleaning.
The initial “settling” period is over.
Improper daily denture care regimen.

What To Do If Dentures Loosen

If these dentures are fairly new, it’s important to consider that they need a period of adjustment, in which case, some looseness is normal. However, make sure to keep all of your follow-up appointments with your dentist. For dentures that have loosened as a result of time or use, give us a call at: 516-565-3435 or 516-348-2000. To try a temporary fix, make sure to use the appropriate adhesive!

How To Handle Broken Dentures

Dentures are an important part of your oral health, so the moment you have a problem arise, make sure to treat it with as much urgency as you would with your natural teeth. Broken dentures are often the result of many things, but most commonly may include:

Soaking in too hot water that causes melting or warping.
An injury or an accident while the denture is being used.
Improper maintenance or simply, general wear and tear through usage.

If your dentures are broken or misshapen, never opt to wear someone else’s or a pair that’s not properly fitted for you. Collect all of the pieces of your broken dentures, but never attempt repair on your own. The pieces you collect should be placed inside a container filled with water.

You can proactively prevent denture breakage by removing them nightly and following strict guidelines from your dentist. It’s also crucial to only use cold water when soaking them and storing them in a proper container when not in use. Lastly, always schedule regular checkups with your dentist to prevent future problems.

If you find that your dentures are broken or loose, schedule an emergency dental in Baltimore appointment right away!

The Most Common Reasons for a Tooth Extraction

While often seen as a last resort, tooth extraction becomes necessary in some situations. Among the several reasons that may necessitate a tooth extraction, one stands out as the most prevalent and this post will delve into the gist of things.

The Most Common Reason for Extraction: Severe Tooth Decay

Severe tooth decay, or advanced dental caries or cavities is the most frequent cause of tooth extraction. Dental caries, usually fueled by poor oral hygiene, sugary diets, and inadequate dental care, can lead to the gradual breakdown of the tooth’s structure. When the cavities penetrate the enamel and dentin, and reach the sensitive pulp inside, they can cause pain, inflammation, and even infection.

Why Does Severe Tooth Decay Lead to Extraction?

Once dental decay hits an advanced stage, the affected teeth are less likely to respond to less invasive treatments like root canals or filings. If the damage is at a point that affects the tooth’s structural integrity, extraction becomes the viable course of action to avoid further complications. Leaving a severely decayed tooth unaddressed can lead to issues like:

Pain & Discomfort– When the nerves within the tooth are exposed, it becomes sensitive to pain and sensitivity.

Infection– Bacteria can make their way to the pulp chamber, causing an infection that can spread to the surrounding areas.

Abscess Formation– An abscess is a pocket of pus that can develop at the root of the tooth, leading to extreme pain and inflammation.

How to Avoid Severe Tooth Decay

Preventing extreme tooth decay is vital in avoiding extraction. That said, here are simple but effective tips to keep your teeth healthy and free from cavities:

1. Brush Regularly– brush at least two times per day using fluoride toothpaste. This will help remove food particles and plaque, which left unattended can build up and cause decay.

2. Floss Daily– Flossing helps clean between teeth and in parts where your toothbrush cannot reach properly.

3. Watch Your Diet– Sugar feeds bacteria that aid in the development of cavities. So limit sugary foods and beverages and instead stick to a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.

4. Regular Dental Check-ups– Having dental check-ups is recommended for detecting and treating cavities early enough. A great dentist will be able to identify potential issues before they escalate.

The Takeaway

Extreme tooth decay stands out as the prevalent reason for tooth extraction. Keep in mind that prevention is key to avoiding the need for tooth extraction and you can ascertain this by practicing good oral hygiene, visiting your dentist in Baltimore regularly, and maintaining a healthy diet.

6 Do’s and 6 Don’ts Post Tooth Extraction

Having a tooth extracted is a standard dental procedure that can be done to remove a damaged, decayed, or infected tooth. While it is a minor procedure, taking care of your mouth afterward is crucial for preventing complications and hastening the healing process. In this brief post, we’ll delve into the dos and don’ts following tooth extraction in simple terms.

6 Do’s and 6 Don’ts Post Tooth Extraction

The Dos

1. Follow the Dentist’s Instructions

Your dentist knows best and will provide specific guidelines based on your situation. As such, you’ll want to listen and follow their instructions to the letter carefully.

2. Keep Gauze in Position

Following the procedure, the dentist will put a piece of gauze over the extraction site. It’s important to apply gentle pressure on the piece for the recommended time in order to control bleeding and allow for clot formation.

3. Use Ice Packs

In order to reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the cheek between 15 to 20 minutes on the off during the first day.

4. East Soft Foods

You’ll want to avoid chewy, hard, or crunchy foods for the first few days as they can tamper with the healing process. Instead, sticks to foods like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, soup, and yogurt.

5. Take Prescribed Medicine

If you were given antibiotics or pain relievers, take them as prescribed. This is important for pain management and preventing infections.

6. Stay Hydrated

Ensure you drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws for the first several days. The sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot, thus affecting the healing process.

The Don’ts

1. Avoid Spitting and Rinsing

Do not use mouthwash or spit forcefully for the first 24 hours as the pressure can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a painful condition called dry socket.

2. Avoid Strenuous Activities

Do not engage in heavy lifting or intense activities for the first few days as your body needs time to heal.

3. Avoid Hot Foods and Alcohol

Hot foods and alcohol can aggravate the healing site, so avoid them for a couple of days.

4. Do Not Smoke

If you smoke, avoid it for at least 2 days. The substances in tobacco smoke can also affect the clot and increase the risk of infection.

5. Don’t Overlook Abnormal Symptoms

Mild to moderate pain or swelling is normal, but if these symptoms worsen, consult your dentist as they could be signs of an infection.

6. Do Not Skip Follow-up Appointments

If your dentist scheduled any follow-up appointments, ensure you attend them. This is important in monitoring your healing progress.

By following the above tips, you should be able to recover fast and uneventfully following a tooth extraction.

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5 Signs That Indicate a Tooth Needs to Be Removed

Maintaining healthy teeth is crucial for your overall well-being, but in some cases, a tooth can become a daunting issue. While tooth extraction is no fun and is considered a last resort, there are some situations where it becomes necessary to prevent further complications. In this post, we are going to look at several telltale signs that your tooth needs to be pulled out.

5 Signs That Indicate a Tooth Needs to Be Removed

1. Severe Toothache

An extreme toothache that isn’t relieved by over-the-counter pain medication is a sign that something is wrong with the tooth. The pain may be constant or come and go, and it may be worse at night or when you bite down

2. Severe Tooth Decay

When left unaddressed, tooth decay can progress to a point where the tooth’s structural integrity is compromised. If your tooth has decayed to a level where the enamel, pulp, and dentin are damaged, it cannot be saved through conventional filling or root canal treatment. In such a case, extraction is the only viable solution.

2. Advanced Gum Disease

Also referred to as periodontitis, advanced gum disease can result in the loosening of teeth because of the deterioration of the supporting bone and tissues. If the bone loss is severe and your tooth becomes too unstable to stay in place, it is time to have it pulled out.

3. Irreparable Tooth Fractures

If a tooth fracture extends deep into the root, it can affect the tooth’s stability and cause severe pain. If the fracture is too extreme to be fixed through crowns or bonding, extraction may be required. This prevents infection and further discomfort.

4. Affected Wisdom Teeth

Also referred to as third molars, wisdom teeth usually do not have adequate space to emerge correctly, leading to impaction. This can result in pain, inflammation, and even infection. If left unaddressed (through extraction), they can also damage neighboring teeth, hurting your overall health.

5. Overcrowding and Orthodontic Treatment

In some situations, teeth need to be pulled out in order to make space for proper alignment during orthodontic treatment. Overcrowding can result in difficulty in cleaning, crooked teeth, and an increased risk of dental issues. As such, having a tooth pulled out can help achieve a straighter smile and healthier bite.

The Takeaway

The prospect of having your tooth extracted can be scary, but it is important to recognize the signs that show this procedure is necessary. Keep in mind that your dentist is the best individual to evaluate your oral health and recommend the right treatment. So, ensure you consult them and have regular dental check-ups in Baltimore.