Top 5 Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can occur at any time and to anyone. Even the most diligent in their oral hygiene can find themselves in a tough or painful situation. We have compiled a list of the top 5 dental emergencies to make sure you are prepared should you ever find yourself with a dental emergency.

Top 5 Dental Emergencies

1. Knocked out tooth – We are sure there are plenty of kids and adults in and around Calgary that may have experienced a puck or ball to the face and many times a tooth may get knocked out even by a simple fall. The best course of action is to make sure you keep your tooth moist and the root intact as much as possible. Our advice? Rinse the tooth off with water and place it in a container filled with water or wrapped in a moist paper towel. This will ensure your tooth stays hydrated should the odds be in your favour for reattachment. Make sure you get in to see your local dentist (we hear the team at Dental at the Met are amazing!) so you and your dentist can decide on the best steps to ensure you don’t go long without a missing tooth.
2. Cracked tooth – The second most common dental emergency we see are cracked teeth. This most frequently involves a slip or a fall. Should you be unfortunate enough to have a cracked tooth make sure you call your local dentist (we keep hearing about the team at Dental at the Met) and get in right away to have it assessed. Should you experience pain, local over the counter pain medication may help in easing the discomfort.
3. Painful or infected tooth – This one can be particularly painful and may need immediate treatment from your local dentist (did we mention Dental at the Met?) Should you find yourself in this situation call the dentist right away. We strongly advise against treating the infection yourself as you can do more harm than good to your oral health. Over the counter pain medications can also help in this situation should you not be able to get in right away (but we hear the team at Dental at the Met is amazing in helping out in this situation).
4. Temporary Dental Crown Comes off – It can happen and if it does, don’t panic. Make sure you take the crown out of your mouth, and if you did happen to swallow it definitely don’t panic! Most dental crowns will pass through your digestive system without causing harm. Keep the crown in a small container or a bag and call your dentist right away. We don’t advise trying to repair the crown yourself as the crown may be damaged and will need to get examined by your dentist. Tip: don’t chew on the same side as the crown as this may lead to further complications before your crown may be put back in.
5. Lost filling – Though it may cause some discomfort a filling that became dislodged will not likely be painful. The most common symptom will feel like a hole in your tooth. Try and avoid eating on that side as well. But fear not, our dental team at Dental at the Met has got you covered! Call the clinic and we’d be happy to get your teeth feeling and looking like new!