Summertime is here! It’s time for fun in the sun. Before you jet off to your vacation destination, it’s important to be prepared for anything that comes your way – and that includes dental emergencies. Unfortunately, toothaches can occur without warning. While dental pain can certainly be a nuisance, it doesn’t have to ruin your vacation. Today, your emergency dentist in Denver at Metropolitan Dental Care will discuss some of the most common traumatic scenarios and explain how to address them appropriately.
If you are in the Denver area, and are experiencing a dental emergency, call Metropolitan Dental Care at 303-534-2626 right away. Our team of skilled and knowledgeable dentists can help alleviate your pain so you can get back to the beach in no time!
Plan Ahead
If you are diligent in your oral health, you probably receive routine dental cleanings and checkups every three to six months. This allows your dentist to monitor the health of your teeth and gums and identify any potential problems before they worsen. As an added preventative measure, it is a good idea to schedule an examination before you head out on your summertime adventure. This is particularly important if you plan to travel via airplane. Did you know that the increase in cabin pressure can actually exacerbate certain dental issues such as cracked fillings, tooth decay, or fractured teeth? A simple assessment by your emergency dentist in Denver can help you avoid any painful situations while vacationing.
Bring Along a Dental First-Aid Kit
Dental emergencies are never convenient. However, by including a dental first-aid kit on your packing list, you can be prepared when the unexpected happens. Many outdoor sporting goods stores carry dental emergency kits, although you can make your own by gathering a few simple supplies. Your first-aid kit should include:
- Dental floss
- Gauze pads
- Tea bag (tea contains tannic acid, which helps slow bleeding)
- A cold compress or ice pack
- Temporary filling mixture
- Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Toothpicks
- Orajel® or Anbesol®
Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them
The first thing you should do in any dental emergency situation is contact a dental provider near you. They can schedule you an appointment at their office and give you instructions to reduce your discomfort in the meantime. Listed below are some of the most common dental emergencies and how to handle them in an effective and timely manner.
- Toothache: If you start to feel a twinge of pain in a tooth, take some ibuprofen and swish gently with a warm saltwater rinse. Next, apply a cold compress to the external jaw. If necessary, you can also apply Orajel or Anbesol to numb the discomfort.
- Chipped or cracked tooth: Rinse your mouth gently with warm saltwater. If you are experiencing discomfort, take an over-the-counter pain reliever and apply a cold compress.
- Knocked-out tooth: Should your tooth be knocked out of its socket, hold the tooth by the crown and rinse it off thoroughly. Try to replace it in the socket. If this is not feasible, soak the tooth in a container filled with milk or saline. It is important to see a dentist as soon as possible. If addressed within an hour or two, there is a chance the tooth can be replanted.
- Lost filling: If an old filling falls out or becomes damaged, use an over-the-counter temporary restorative material to protect the area. If temporary filling material is unavailable, you can use a piece of sugarless gum instead.
- Loose crown: If a crown becomes loose or falls off, a temporary dental cement can be purchased at a local pharmacy. Denture adhesive can also be used. However, these remedies are only temporary. You should see your dentist as soon as you arrive home from your vacation.
Knowing what to expect in a dental emergency is the best way to handle the situation effectively. If you experience dental trauma while traveling, following the guidelines discussed above can help you alleviate your discomfort.
Contact Your Emergency Dentist in Denver
Are you vacationing in Colorado this summer? If you experience a dental emergency while traveling, contact your emergency dentist in Denver. Our team of general dentists and specialists at Metropolitan Dental Care is well-equipped to handle any situation. We are proud to serve Denver, Centennial, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. Contact us online or give us a call at 303-534-2626.
