Just as it’s important to always be prepared for minor injuries or accidents, it’s also important to be prepared for a dental emergency. If you have a regular first-aid kit on hand for accidents, you can make a few additions to this kit to address the specific needs of damage to the mouth or teeth.
Preparing a Dental First-Aid Kit
A dental first-aid kit can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth in the case of dental injury. Our dentist can provide suggestions regarding what items you should keep in your emergency kit. Typically, these items include:
- A tube of toothpaste or denture adhesive
- Gauze to manage bleeding
- A cup to carry a knocked-out (avulsed) tooth
- Special liquid that helps preserve an avulsed tooth
- Mouthwash
If you or a family member falls and injured your lips or cheek, or knocks out a tooth, it’s important to control the flow of blood. A knocked-out tooth can be preserved in a small cup with milk, water, or special fluid designed for avulsed teeth. Mouthwash can help disinfect mouth injuries if a filling or crown falls out, toothpaste or denture adhesive will hold it in place until you can get to our office.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Taking precautions can help reduce the likelihood that you’ll injure your mouth or teeth. Be careful when walking on uneven, slick, or wet surfaces. Wear a mouth guard when you play sports. In the car, always wear your seatbelt and be sure your airbags and other emergency systems are functional and properly maintained. When riding a bike or motorcycle, be sure to wear a helmet. These precautions will greatly reduce your chances of injuring your mouth, teeth, or face.
If you do experience a dental injury, treat it promptly with items from your first-aid kit, then see our dentist as soon as possible. Particularly in the case of knocked-out teeth, the sooner you can get to a professional, the more likely you will be to save your tooth.
Put our office on speed dial and call us at 682-204-4933 for your next emergency!
