No one ever expects to experience a dental emergency, but accidents happen with no warning. 1 in 6 Americans suffers a dental emergency every year. Although you may never expect it to happen to you, it’s best to be prepared, just in case. Time is of the utmost importance when you have an urgent oral health problem. Here’s what to include in your dental emergency kit.
Dental Emergency Kit Must-Haves
You can’t plan for every situation, but including a few key items will get you through most situations. Your dental emergency kit should contain:
- Cotton Swabs: Cotton swabs can be used as applicators or to clean areas in the mouth.
- Cotton Balls or Gauze: Gauze and cotton balls can control bleeding.
- Alcohol Wipes: Alcohol wipes provide a quick disinfecting solution.
- Dental Floss: Floss can dislodge food or objects caught between your teeth.
- Dental Mirror: A small mirror allows you to get a good look ar your mouth.
- Gloves: Vinyl or latex gloves will prevent cross-contamination when providing care to yourself or someone else.
- Dental Wax: Wax can coat sharp edges from broken braces or a chipped tooth.
- Temporary Dental Filling Material: The material can provide a temporary solution to protect a tooth if a restoration is lost.
- Petroleum Jelly: Petroleum jelly can hold a lost crown in place by creating a temporary seal.
- Salt: Salt water is an antibacterial mouthrinse that can also reduce pain and inflammation. You can also use it as a saline solution to preserve a knocked-out tooth.
- Cold Compress: A cold compress can reduce swelling and discomfort.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
You can’t always stop dental emergencies from occurring, but you can do many things to lessen your risk. Many oral health emergencies result from untreated dental problems, like cavities. Visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup will keep your teeth and gums healthy to ensure there aren’t any concerns hiding in your mouth. If your dentist finds a problem, don’t wait to have it treated.
Besides regular dental care, commit to good oral hygiene at home. Brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss every night. Break any bad habits that can damage your smile, like chewing on your fingernails or using your teeth in place of scissors. Wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports.
A little preparation can make a stressful event much easier if the unexpected should happen.
About Dr. Matt Mazzawi
Dr. Mazzawi takes pride in creating healthy, beautiful smiles. After earning his dental degree at the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry, he has regularly pursued continuing education in many specialties to treat the most complex oral health issues, including dental emergencies. He is a member of various professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through our website or call (404) 816-8725.