Informing your dentist is the first thing that must be done. Prolonging this step often leads to further damage and increased infection if the injury is not checked within a rapid time. Extreme toothaches that prevent focus or normal functionality in your daily life is also considered an emergency. According to the American Dental Association for toothaches, you should rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Remove any excess food by flossing in between the teeth, and do not physically put any pain relievers on the tooth or in the gum tissues. This type of dental issue can pose more of a threat than an instant injury. In many cases, an unbearably painful toothache is the result of bacteria reaching the root and nerves of your tooth which sends shocking pain waves to your brain. At our Monmouth County office, we examine whether the source of the issue is gum disease, an enlarged cavity, or long-term root exposure.
You need to be seen by an emergency dentist within 30 minutes of your tooth being knocked out, so call us right away at Comprehensive Dentistry.
Do not pick up the tooth by the root. This is extremely important, and here’s why: teeth are attached to the jaw bone via the periodontal ligament, which is also how teeth get their blood supply and their nerve sensation. The cells in the root can still regenerate if action is taken immediately after a tooth has been knocked out. Hold the tooth in place where it fell out after rinsing it. If the tooth is dirty, then do not use soap. Rinse it well to preserve those necessary cells for regeneration. Otherwise, there’s a risk of losing the tooth.
The moment your mouth begins to hurt is not necessary the moment you have an emergency. It may hurt a lot when you have a cavity and are eating or drinking foods and beverages that are either very cold or hot. But a cavity, while urgent, is not a life-threatening dental illness. Call our office to schedule a check-up to see how we can help.
As for pain medication, you may be prescribed an anti-inflammatory medication as well as an antibiotic. Both of these are important for your healing, so make sure to take your anabiotic as prescribed until you finish the bottle. Over-the-counter ibuprofen pain medications, such as Advil and Motrin, are reliable pain relievers. But if you cannot take either of them, Tylenol is another good choice. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage on the bottle of whichever you choose.
Lastly, after any sort of emergency surgery, it’s important not to smoke, or drink out of a straw. This is because both of these require movement of the mouth that can break blood clots that are forming in your mouth that need to heal. Refrain from smoking for at least a few days after your surgery to improve and recovery.
Instead, you can eat soft fruits such as bananas and peaches, soft foods such as oatmeal and soups and pasta, or you can make milkshakes or smoothies. Stick to this diet for a few days until your wounds have healed enough for more solid food. Your Monmouth dentist will provide you a customized treatment plan with tips specifically for you.
A dental emergency is a scary situation, if you are experiencing severe tooth pain or have recently chipped or lost your tooth, getting in touch with our Monmouth County dental professionals will benefit you right away. Our dentists are very knowledgeable and skilled at providing optimal treatment for fast and efficient patient care. Schedule an appointment today and speak with one of our after-hours emergency experts to hear all your restorative options.
3350 Route 138 W
Bldg 2, Ste 127
Wall Township, NJ 07719
