Dental emergencies can be very painful and inconvenient. It’s important to know what counts as a dental emergency and when you should seek help. In this blog post, some of the most common dental emergencies and what you can do to relieve the pain will be examined, as well as how to find an emergency dentist in Ipswich who can see you on the same day!
What counts as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any type of problem that requires immediate treatment from a dental team. This can include a cracked tooth, a lost filling, or even something as simple as a toothache. If you’re not sure whether or not your issue qualifies as an emergency, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and give your dental surgery a call.
What to do if you are experiencing a dental emergency?
Triage and first aid; have you experienced trauma or sudden discomfort? If so, start with checking and stanching bleeding. If the bleeding is controlled, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply cold compression to the outside of your face; this will help reduce swelling. Next, call your nearest clinic for further instructions.
If you have a toothache, start by rinsing your mouth with warm water and gently flossing around the sore tooth to remove any food debris. Call your surgery and ask for an emergency appointment. Describe your symptoms, and that can direct you further.
If you have lost a filling or crown, tooth or part of a tooth, try to find it and bring it with you to your appointment.
How to find an emergency dental team fast
What if you’re not registered with a clinic? Out of your local area or it’s out of hours? Here are some top tips for finding an emergency dental team.
First, try and stay calm. Easier said than done, but it’s important to remember that most dental emergencies can be fixed. If you’re in pain, take over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol; these can help to ease the pain until you get to a dental team.
Any hospital with an A&E will also perform urgent dental interventions, but this will be limited to NHS treatment and will prioritise short-treatment over restoration.
What to expect from your visit to the dental surgery?
It can be difficult to communicate when in great discomfort, so analgesia may be given before a consultation if necessary. You will be asked about your medical history, and the team will examine your mouth. If necessary, they will take x-rays to get a better view of your teeth and jawbone.
They will discuss their findings with you and recommend a course of treatment. If you have any questions, be sure to ask. Your dental team will want to ensure that you understand and consent before being treated.
Tips for managing dental emergencies
Stop bleeding if any, and call your dental team immediately. If they are not available, go to the nearest hospital emergency room. You can try to manage any pain and discomfort with OTC medication or ice until you can see a dental professional. Remember to rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the affected area if possible.
