Dental emergencies can be painful, frightening, and sometimes even life-threatening – which makes them all the more stressful when you’re on holiday!
We recently helped a patient who was visiting Noosa on holiday who had an accident that chipped three of his front teeth. Our dental team was able to restore his smile in one visit.
Here are some common dental emergencies people may experience on holiday and suggestions on what steps to take to ensure the best outcome. These recommendations are general in nature and we encourage you to contact the practice right away if you’re experiencing a dental emergency and we will endeavour to see you right away.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a common dental emergency, and it can be caused by a variety of reasons such as sports injuries, falls, or car accidents. If a tooth is knocked out, it is important to act quickly. The first step is to find the tooth and pick it up by the crown, not the root. Rinse the tooth gently with water, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, try to reinsert the tooth into the socket and hold it in place with a clean cloth or gauze. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, put it in a container of milk or saliva and take it with you to the dentist immediately.
Toothache
Toothache is another common dental emergency. It can be caused by a variety of reasons such as decay, infection, gum disease, or trauma. If you experience a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water and use dental floss to remove any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth. You can also take over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen to relieve the pain. However, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible to prevent the problem from getting worse.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth is another dental emergency that requires immediate attention. Rinse your mouth with warm water and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. If you find any broken pieces of the tooth, keep them and take them with you to the dentist. Your dentist may be able to reattach the broken piece or use a dental crown or filling to repair the tooth.
Lost Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown can cause sensitivity, pain, and discomfort. If you lose a filling or crown, rinse your mouth with warm water and try to reinsert the filling or crown using a dental adhesive or temporary filling material. If you cannot reinsert the filling or crown, cover the affected tooth with dental wax or cotton to protect it and visit your dentist as soon as possible.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries such as cuts, lacerations, or puncture wounds to the lips, cheeks, tongue, or gums can be caused by accidents, falls, or sports injuries. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply pressure to the bleeding area with a clean cloth or gauze. If the bleeding does not stop or if the injury is severe, go to the emergency room immediately.