What to Do During a Dental Emergency in Perth

Dental emergencies can strike at any moment, often bringing pain and discomfort that require immediate attention. Knowing how to handle these situations until you can get professional help is crucial, especially if you’re in Perth. Whether it’s a broken tooth, a severe toothache, or a knocked-out tooth, here’s what to do during a emergency dental Perth, ensuring quick and appropriate responses to mitigate damage and ease discomfort.

1. Contact an Emergency Dental Clinic

The first step during any dental emergency is to contact an emergency dental Perth clinic. Many dental offices in Perth offer emergency services, providing care outside regular business hours. Have the contact details of your nearest emergency dental clinic readily available, or quickly look one up online. Prompt action can often save a tooth and significantly reduce the risk of infection or complications.

2. Managing a Knocked-Out Tooth

If you have a tooth that has been knocked out, it’s crucial to handle it carefully. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part that is usually exposed in the mouth), not by the root. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline solution—avoid scrubbing it or using tap water. Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket if possible and hold it in place by gently biting down on a clean cloth or piece of gauze. If reinsertion isn’t possible, transport the tooth in a container of milk or the patient’s saliva to the dentist as quickly as possible. Time is of the essence; ideally, the tooth should be replaced within the hour.

3. Treating a Toothache

A severe toothache can be a sign of an underlying problem and should not be ignored. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean it out. Use dental floss to remove any food caught between your teeth. If swelling is present, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek. Never put aspirin or any other painkiller directly against the gums near the aching tooth, as this could burn the gum tissue. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help reduce pain, but they are a temporary solution; seeing a dentist as soon as possible is essential.

4. Handling a Broken Tooth

For a broken or chipped tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection. Apply a cold compress to the face to minimize swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to the dentist after rinsing it clean.

5. Dealing with Objects Stuck Between Teeth

If an object gets stuck between your teeth, try to gently remove it with dental floss. Be careful not to cut your gums. Do not use a sharp object to try and remove anything stuck between your teeth as this can cause further damage. If the object does not come out with dental floss, contact a dentist.

6. Bleeding After a Tooth Extraction

If you experience bleeding after a tooth extraction, place a piece of clean, moist gauze over the empty tooth socket. Bite down firmly to apply pressure for about 15-20 minutes. A cold compress to the cheek can also help reduce swelling and control bleeding. If bleeding does not subside, seek immediate dental attention.

By knowing what to do in these common dental emergencies and acting quickly, you can effectively manage the situation and reduce the risk of permanent damage. Always remember, after administering any emergency care, follow up with a visit to a dentist in Perth as soon as possible for appropriate treatment and to ensure your dental health is fully restored.