THE BEST WAY to get the best possible outcome in any kind of emergency is to have an action plan ready beforehand, so here are some tips to keep in mind for different types of dental emergencies:
1. A Knocked-Out Baby Tooth
These usually aren’t emergencies, especially if the damage is only to the tooth, but it’s a good idea to at least call the dentist for advice on how to proceed.
2. A Knocked-Out Adult Tooth
There is a limited window in which the dentist may be able to replant an intact knocked-out tooth. Get it to the dentist as quickly as possible, storing it either in the socket or in a glass of milk. Do NOT touch the root, do NOT let it dry out, and do NOT scrub it clean with soap, alcohol, or peroxide, because it will kill the root!
3. A Broken Tooth
Find the pieces and bring them to the dentist in a glass of cold milk. Don’t ignore cracked teeth, no matter how small the cracks! The damage could lead to infection, abscess, bone loss, and even life-threatening spread of infection.
Do You Know Where Your Emergency Dentist Is?
Aside from knowing what to do before getting to the dentist, it’s crucial to know where to go! Be familiar with the location of an emergency dentist, and keep their phone number handy.