Many people know what to do in a general medical emergency, but have they thought about what to do in a dental emergency? Your dental health should be prioritized as highly as your overall health! Being prepared for an emergency can minimize stress and panic if an unfortunate situation does arise. We’ve compiled a list of information to help you and your family formulate a plan of action today.
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Take Preventive Measures
Follow all safety precautions available to protect your teeth as best you can. Wear a custom-fitted athletic mouthguard when participating in contact physical activities, and a custom-fitted nightguard if you grind your teeth. Avoid chewing on ice and sticky and/or hard candy that can damage your teeth, especially if you wear braces. Moreover, never attempt to open packaging with your teeth—get up and find the scissors.
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Know Your Dentist’s Information
Phone numbers are usually easily accessible, but make sure you know your dentist’s protocol in case of an emergency. Some offices have emergency answering services, or will even offer an emergency telephone number to directly reach your dentist.
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Add to Your First Aid Kit
Your first aid kit should include tools to handle a dental emergency. Ensure you have a tooth preservation solution for a knocked-out tooth and gauze to suppress any excessive bleeding. Though you should have floss in your daily toiletry supply, keep an extra pack in your first aid kit. Many severe toothaches are caused by food lodged between teeth.
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Educate Yourself About Common Emergencies
Knowing how to handle an emergency when it occurs is critical. For example, if you experience a broken, knocked-out, or chipped tooth, keep the tooth and its pieces moist in milk or your tooth preservation solution and call our office immediately!
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Keep Up with Your Routine Cleanings
Many dental emergencies can be prevented by regularly getting your teeth cleaned and examined at Arlington Dental Excellence. Any change in your dental health can be detected early on, which may save you from a more serious and painful situation later.
Arlington Dental Excellence Is Here to Help!
While most dental emergencies are completely unexpected, these tips and tricks can better equip you to handle them. And if you experience a dental emergency, call us ASAP at (703) 962-4218.
