ABSCESSES Dental abscesses are either
caused by tooth infections, as a result of nerve death inside the tooth,
or gum infections. . Common emergencies involve infections around Wisdom
Teeth. It is very important that you call a dentist, because in some
cases an abscess may become life threatening. Antibiotics and pain killers
are generally needed.
SEVERE PAIN Severe pain may be the result
of many factors. Some common examples are: trauma, tooth fractures, gum
abscess, tooth infection, bone infection after surgery, and dental procedures.
Call your dentist immediately.
AVULSED TEETH This situation usually involves
children. The cause is usually due to trauma or playground accidents; riding
bikes, skate boards and roller blades are also common causes. If the tooth
has completely come out, keep the tooth either in cold milk or under the
child's tongue and call your dentist immediately. It is advisable not to
rinse the tooth or the tooth socket inside the mouth. These teeth can be
put back and often do quite well provided the supporting bone has not been
too badly damaged.
BROKEN TEETH Minor fractures or cracks
can generally be fixed with a simple smoothing, a basic restoration, or
in cases of more severe fracture of the tooth, with a crown. Fractures
involving the nerve will usually require a root canal, post and build up,
and a crown. If the root is broken the tooth will need evaluation; smaller
root fractures at the tip of the root can often be saved but more severe
fractures may cause the need for extraction of the tooth.
JAW OR FACIAL FRACTURES Make sure the airway for breathing is open, call 911, or transport the victim to emergency room at the closest hospital.
I highly recommend
that you take a First-Aid and CPR course to be familiar with the basics
of what to do in case of emergencies for your loved ones and people whose
life you could save.
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