While many people have a first aid kit in their house or at their workplace, most people find themselves unprepared when a dental emergency strikes. This is unfortunate because oral injuries can be fairly common, especially for young children. Whether or not you have kids, though, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Keep reading below to learn how to do that by creating a dental emergency kit.
Latex-Free Gloves
You should always put on gloves before treating someone else to minimize the spread of germs. It’s a good idea to have vinyl gloves instead of latex gloves, just in case the person with the emergency is allergic to latex.
Dental Floss
Severe tooth discomfort is often caused by a piece of food debris getting trapped in between the teeth. Flossing around the area can dislodge the object and provide relief.
Small Container with Secure Lid
If a piece of your tooth breaks off or you lose a crown or filling, gently rinse it off and store it in a little container to keep it safe and prevent it from being exposed to germs.
Gauze or Cotton Balls
Apply pressure with a cotton ball or gauze pad to slow bleeding. Keep them neatly packed in the kit so they stay clean.
Dental Wax
Wax comes in handy if someone chips a tooth or breaks a bracket off their braces. Placing wax on the area prevents any jagged edges from irritating the mouth’s soft tissues.
Small Bottle of Acetaminophen
Over-the-counter painkillers can soothe discomfort. Be sure to not use aspirin since it’s an anticoagulant, which inhibits blood clotting and makes bleeding worse. Also, do not place the painkiller directly on the area, as it could irritate the gums and worsen your pain.
Orajel
This topical anesthetic can provide temporary relief when applied directly to the sore site.
Cold Compress
Not only can cold compresses cut down on pain, but they can greatly decrease facial swelling. Apply it for ten minutes on, then ten minutes off for up to an hour.
Dental Mirror
A mirror helps you get a better idea of what’s going on in your mouth or in the mouth of the person you’re treating. Some dental mirrors even come with an attached light.
Your Dentist’s Contact Information
Write down your dentist’s phone number, address, and email on a small piece of paper and keep it in the kit. That way if a dental emergency leaves you unable to talk, you can have someone else call the dentist for you.
While dental emergencies are by their very nature unpredictable, you can be prepared by creating a kit with all the items you’ll need.
About the Author
Dr. Rodger Song has more than 30 years of experiencing practicing dentistry. He has earned a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry thanks to his dedication to clinical excellence and continuing education. His practice offers same-day appointments for patients with dental emergencies. If you need urgent dental care, contact Bridlewood Dental in Flower Mound, TX at (972) 906-9797.