Dental Emergency can occur at any time and can arise unpredictably. It can cause severe discomfort and inconvenience, particularly if it happens in the middle of the night. Our best defence against dental emergencies is prevention and regular dental check ups.
The following scenarios are generally considered as an emergency:
- Excruciating toothache
- Broken, cracked or dislodged teeth or fillings due to trauma or accident. This can come with severe pain or without pain.
- Swelling or abscesses in your gum or/and face.
- Broken crowns, bridges, or dentures that severely affect your ability to chew or speak.
Special notes for avulsed tooth
In the event where the tooth has been completely knocked out of the dental socket (avulsed), retrieve the tooth by gently holding only onto the crown part (white portion), and do not handle the tooth by its root.
Store the avulsed tooth in a container filled with fresh full cream milk as soon as possible. If milk is not available, you may also place the tooth in your mouth below the tongue area, and refrain from rinsing the tooth or attempt to clean or wipe it.
If possible, immediately bring the tooth stored in the container to the nearest dental clinic or hospital. Time is crucial as successful re-plantation needs to be within 20 minutes or earlier from the time the tooth has been out of the socket.