Dental accidents
happen, but unfortunately, sometimes it is not always possible to make it to
the dentist in a timely manner. Of course, there is no substitute for an
emergency visit to your dentist however; there are some things you can do to
make your dentist’s job a little bit easier.
Braces
If you or anyone in
your family wears wire and bracket braces, it is important that you check them
regularly. If a wire protrudes out, should snap, or rubs against your gum or
cheek, try to push it back where it sits more comfortably. Use a pencil with an
eraser on the end, and use the eraser to push it gently into a place where it
will not rub. If that does not work, cover the wire that is protruding with a
small sized cotton ball, a piece of gauze, or some orthodontic wax. Make sure
that you schedule an appointment with your orthodontist as quickly as possible.
Also, make sure that you never cut the protruding wire as the person who is
wearing the braces could inhale it into their lungs or swallow it.
Missing Dental
Filling
If you should have a
filling fall out, try and plug the cavity with dental cement or dental was. You
can buy both the wax or cement at your local pharmacy. If a filling should fall
out you will want to see your dentist quickly. If you still have the filling,
make sure to bring it with you.
Missing Dental Crown
If you lose a crown,
try to slip it back into position on the tooth using toothpaste, dental cement
or an adhesive used for dentures. This will hold the crown into place until you
can make it to the dentist’s office.
Never attempt a DIY
repair of an already damaged tooth, crown, filling or dental implant with super
glue. All of these dental emergencies are jobs for your dentist.
It is nearly
impossible to avoid a dental emergency; however, you can keep your teeth and
gums in tiptop shape by scheduling regular appointments with your dentist. Call
and schedule your dental checkup today.
