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Posted on 9/25/2019 by Dr. Brandon Cooley |
There are many ways a tooth can get cracked or chipped. This usually happens during a sporting event or because of poor oral health. Seeing a doctor, they may patch you up for a short period of time, providing you with some pain medicine and if there's any sign of infection or cavities, you'll be given some antibiotics. If your dentist has a long wait before you can get in, you may have some pain to deal with. What to Do While Waiting to See the DentistThe first thing to do is to rinse your mouth out with warm water or some saltwater. Ice will become your new best friend until you can get in to see the dentist. Apply a cold bag of ice wrapped in a small towel to your check where the swelling is occurring or will occur. Use it in 10-15-minute intervals. Do not place the ice inside your mouth. It can cause further breakage if you accidentally bite down on it. Apply gauze to the broken tooth if it is bleeding or continues to bleed. Ice will help slow the bleeding. If you have an extreme crack or a majority of your tooth has been severed and the root is exposed, see a dentist within 24 hours.Ways to Temporarily Patch up Your ToothSince most dentists can't see you immediately unless it's an emergency, there are some options to patch up your tooth until then. Continue to place ice in a bag with a towel on your cheek. Keeping the swelling down keeps the pain away. If you still have the piece of the tooth or a jagged edge, head to your local drug store and purchase some dental cement. Glue the tooth back together or apply it to the broken tooth's jagged edge. This will help keep from cutting your tongue on it.As you are waiting for your appointment keep an eye out for any changes that occur in your overall health. If you develop any flu-like symptoms or a fevered headache, immediately go to the hospital as it could be a sign of bacteria that has made its way into your bloodstream and you'll need antibiotics. Our office is available to help if you are going through this. We have the staff and expertise to put you back together. Call us to get scheduled as soon as possible. |
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(425) 249-3509 everett@cooleysmiles.com LOCATION 10627 19th Ave SE, Suite B Everett, WA 98208-5147 |