Dental Emergencies

If you are having a dental emergency, here are some tips to help you out until you are able to come and see us:

General Tips and Pain Relief

Rinse orally with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of warm water) every 3-4 hours. Stay on a soft diet such as lukewarm soups, smoothies, well cooked pasta and avoid the sore side of your mouth when eating. Avoid hot or cold food and drink. Stick to lukewarm food and fluids. If there is swelling, use a cold compress or ice-pack (a bag of frozen peas or ice gel) wrapped in a soft towel and place against the outside of your mouth or cheek for about 10 minutes.

You may want to take an over-the-counter pain reliever until your appointment, such as Advil (ibuprofen). Typically, ibuprofen is more effective for managing dental pain than Tylenol (acetaminophen). Follow the instructions on the bottle and your medical doctor’s instructions, being especially careful if you are allergic to pain-relievers or on any medication that could negatively interact with pain-relievers. Ibuprofen should not be taken by pregnant women, unless directed by a dentist or medical doctor. Do not take Aspirin unless medically required; it’s an anticoagulant and can cause excessive bleeding in dental emergencies.

What to tell us when you call:

Please try to provide us with answers to these questions:

• What symptoms are you having?
• How long has it hurt?
• What makes it hurt?
• Is it sensitive to pressure, touch, or temperature?
• Does it keep you awake at night?
• How much does it hurt? (Scale of 1-10)
• Have you been taking anything for the pain?
• What is the location of the tooth or pain?
• Do you have any allergies to any medication?