Ever bitten off more than you expected? It’s just the worst when you bite into a biscuit, or even just a soft piece of fruit, and you get more crunch than you bargained for with a piece of added tooth! Teeth can break, fillings can fall out and those pesky nerves can give you a pain that builds to an unbearable crescendo.
But… you’re really not a fan of the dentist, in fact it terrifies you. Or you’re on holiday and trying to enjoy yourself, whilst panicking that you are miles away from your trusted dentist back at home. Can you keep going or is it time to seek some emergency dentistry? Here are the 5 things you should do:
1. Keep calm.
During my time as a Practice Manager I’ve learnt never to underestimate the emotional impact damaging a tooth or putting up with tooth ache can have. Whether it’s the way you look with a broken tooth or the lack of sleep from being in pain. It can cloud your ability to think straight.
2. Assess the damage.
If you’ve knocked the tooth out, try to find the missing tooth. Keep it in some milk. Plug any bleeding with a bit of cotton wool or tissue and take a seat until you feel steady enough to walk. It can be a shock.
If the tooth has broken off, or a filling has fallen out, it may be visible and affect your confidence. It may have left a sensitive part of your tooth exposed and it will feel odd in your mouth.
Toothache could be a sign of an infection. Infections need treating to prevent further damage and more extensive dental work.
In all these cases, it is best to be seen by a dentist as soon possible.
3. Take some painkillers.
If you can, a couple of paracetamol will help to numb the pain. Don’t be tempted to rely on painkillers in order to continue your day. Toothache rarely goes away on its own and is often a warning sign.
4. Search for an emergency dentist.
You don’t have to be seen by your own dentist. If you’re on holiday, most dental practices will see emergency patients even if they are not registered at the practice.
If you’re not registered at any practice because you’re particularly nervous, then there is nothing like an emergency to help you face your fear.
How do you find a dentist? Search online or if you’re staying at a hotel talk the concierge or reception for a recommendation.
5. Book an emergency appointment.
Tell the dental receptionist that it is urgent and describe the problem as accurately as you can.
Here at Blyton Dental we give priority to dental emergencies and aim to see you on the same day. Call 01427 628999 today to make an appointment if you are in pain. We are a very friendly practice with expertise with nervous patients. (Read more here).
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Jackie Stockdale
Practice Manager
Blyton Dental, Gainsborough