Crack A Tooth? Follow These Helpful Tips For Avoiding Pain
If something happens to your tooth that causes a chip or crack, your top concerns will be managing pain before you can get the tooth fixed. Thankfully, this is easy to do if you follow these helpful tips for managing pain.
Stop Bleeding
It's possible that the tooth that was damaged is bleeding. If so, you'll want to rinse out your mouth using water that is lukewarm, avoiding water that is very cold or hot since it can cause you more pain. Your goal will be to remove excess blood from the area, and then place gauze on the tooth in order to prevent it from bleeding even more.
If you're unable to stop the tooth from bleeding, you'll need to go to an emergency room or an emergency dentist.
Manage Swelling
You'll want to use ice packs on the outside of your lips or cheek to prevent the area from swelling. The ice will also help numb the injured area as well, which can reduce pain. If you do not have immediate access to ice, use a wet washcloth that is covered with cold water.
Avoid Chewing
If you can't get emergency help right away, you'll want to avoid eating food before your visit. Not only can it prevent you from causing more damage, but it should keep the injured area free from small food particles. If it's not practical to avoid eating between the injury and your dentist visit, ask your dentist about what foods you should and shouldn't eat until then. You'll most likely be asked to avoid chewy or sticky foods until after you visit the dentist.
Use Dental Cement
When you are unable to visit a dentist right away, you should consider using dental cement on the area to temporarily cover the tooth that is damaged. Your local drug store should sell dental cement, and it doesn't require a prescription to get. You simply apply it to the area to give it some added protection. Your dentist may have a recommendation when it comes to a brand of dental cement, so be sure to ask.
Get Cosmetic Repair
Once the tooth is repaired, you may need to get a cosmetic dentist procedure to get it looking good once again. For example, a dental veneer can be used to cover a tooth that now has visible damage to it, and may not look as great as it could. Speak to a cosmetic dentist about your options.
