You probably don’t expect to ever experience a dental emergency, but these situations are more common than you might think. 1 in 6 Americans suffers a dental emergency every year. It’s best to create an oral emergency kit to have on hand, just in case. You can reduce the chance of a minor issue worsening. Here are the most important things to keep in your dental emergency kit.
Dental Emergency Kit Must-Haves
Dental emergencies often happen with no warning, but being prepared can make a stressful situation much easier. Here are the most important items you should have in your kit if you experience a dental emergency:
- Dental Mirror
- Floss
- Toothbrush
- Dental Wax
- Temporary Restoration Material
- Gauze
- Gloves
- Small Container
- Pain Medication
- Cotton Swabs
- Dental Saline Solution
- Cold Compress
It’s also a good idea to find an emergency dentist before you actually need one. Keep the phone number with your dental emergency kit, so you don’t lose valuable time searching for a dentist when you need one the most.
Managing Common Dental Emergencies
Time is of the utmost importance when suffering a dental emergency. It’s wise to contact an emergency dentist right away. Delaying treatment could cause you to lose your tooth. While waiting for your appointment, here’s how to manage the most common dental emergencies:
- Toothaches: Rinse your mouth with salt water, which will kill bacteria and reduce pain and inflammation. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever and eat soft foods. Sleep with your head elevated to prevent a throbbing toothache.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown and rinse it with water. Do not scrub it or use any soaps or cleaners. Without drying your tooth, insert it back into its socket and bite on a piece of gauze to hold it in place.
- Chipped Tooth: Avoid chewing with your tooth until after it has been repaired. Avoid any hot or cold foods and drinks to prevent sensitivity.
- Object Caught in Teeth: Use a piece of dental floss to try to free the object. Never use sharp or metal instruments to try to remove anything caught in your teeth.
- Lost Restoration: Keep your mouth clean and eat soft foods until after your restoration has been replaced. You can use a small dab of toothpaste to temporarily hold your crown in place.
A dental emergency kit can benefit various sudden oral health issues until you can see your dentist. They will get you into the office quickly to address your pain and assess the situation. They’ll provide the personalized treatment you need to help you through the difficult time.
About Dr. Sumit Chanana
Dr. Chanana earned his dental degree at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine and has continued his education regularly to provide the most up-to-date solutions in dentistry. He can treat the most complex oral health issues, including dental emergencies. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (262) 444-0030.