If you are suffering from a toothache, chipped tooth, loose filling or other dental emergency, it’s important to call your dentist as soon as possible. Toothaches may be an indication of a cavity or other serious problem — such as a bacterial infection — that will need to be addressed quickly and should not go untreated. Until a professional treats you, here are some at-home tips to calm oral pain and what to do when an unexpected emergency arises.

With most dental emergencies, severe pain may be a factor. Aspirin or aspirin substitutes should be avoided as they can slow clotting. If you cannot manage the pain without assistance, you may consider ibuprofen or naproxen sodium — but only if you have no previous allergies or medications that can interact with these painkillers. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist and carefully follow your doctor’s and label instructions.

Cavity Calming Solutions
Applying ice (on and off) to the affected area or to the cheek may help sooth irritated nerves and reduce swelling. Oil of cloves (from the pharmacy), or even fresh cloves from the spice rack, have been known as an aid in relieving pain naturally. Never place an aspirin directly on a painful area inside the mouth. Very gentle massaging and flossing can help to remove irritants, while rinsing with a tepid crystal salt water solution will help reduce swelling and detoxify the mouth. Real vanilla extract placed on a cotton ball and then dabbed around an irritation may also help relieve pain.

Broken Tooth
Rinse your mouth with a warm crystal salt-water solution and get to your dentist as soon as possible. Bleeding may be stopped with gentle pressure to the gums, not to the tooth. Remember to bring any tooth fragments to the dentist with you and keep them hydrated in a solution such as milk or salt water. A soft piece of wax or a temporary filling material from the pharmacy may help to prevent further irritation.

Knocked-out Tooth
Hold or place your tooth in the socket if possible or wrap in clean, wet gauze until you can see a dentist. A tooth has a better chance of being saved and re-implanted if you can get to a dentist within 30 minutes. Call an emergency room or 24-hour dental service if you can’t reach your dentist in time. Biting down on a moistened tea bag may help sooth and slow bleeding.

Crown or Bridge Fell Out
Use a little petroleum jelly or denture adhesive available from the pharmacy under the crown to hold it in place — as a very temporary fix — until you can see a dentist. Do not chew on the crown or bridge.

Bitten Tongue or Lip
Apply a cold compress and gentle pressure to help stop bleeding. If bleeding does not stop, go to an emergency room.

Object Caught Between Teeth
If you cannot remove an object with gentle flossing, do not cut your gums or use any sharp objects to remove the obstruction. You should rinse with warm crystal salt water solution until you can see a dentist.

We often say the mouth is the gateway to total wellness. Treat your mouth with respect and care, including eating a healthy, antioxidant-rich diet, and exercising and brushing three times a day. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and oral health exams. Your dentist may be able to prevent a possible emergency by catching dental problems before they begin — saving you a lot of discomfort and a potential emergency visit later. And common dental issues, such as gum disease, may be precursors to other, more serious illnesses. Studies from Harvard and other major medical institutions have proven that poor gums can put you at high risk for diabetes, heart disease and other illness.

Many people see their dentist more than they see any other doctor. If you are like many who are afraid to see the dentist regularly, ask about “pain free” dental care. In fact, many of our patients find our treatments and procedures soothing and even comforting. Today’s dental science has come a long way — and patients should not be afraid to seek good oral health options. If you are concerned because you do not have insurance, talk to your dentist about possible payment options or other forms of help that may be available.
Dr. Gerald P. Curatola is a renowned aesthetic dentist and pioneer in the emerging field of rejuvenation dentistry, which improves patients’ overall health and appearance by integrating total wellness with cutting edge oral care and restorative procedures. In addition to his private practice, research, and work as a Clinical Associate Professor at NYU College of Dentistry, he is an internationally sought after speaker, author and expert who has been featured widely in print and broadcast media. For more information, go to DrGerry.net

by Lori Lundin 

We came her for dental work, and it’s been more like a vacation.  So far, the dental care my husband has received has exceeded our expectations.  I would even say it’s been superior to what we’ve had in the states.  The level of hospitality, concern for his well being, and the short time it’s taken to get the work done has been nothing short of amazing. In the states, Doug was told it would take 2 years to complete his treatment plan, here he’ll have had a total of five visits and a whole lot of fun in the process.  This has been an eye opening experience.  Doug had major work done. Bone grafts, extractions and titanium implants (like a screw that goes into the bone…and slowly adheres to it so you can attach a crown). Doug has had absolutely no pain.

The day after the big surgery, Doctor Lorenzana called to see if Doug was feeling okay, and up for a day at his beach house.  Doug has been taking his antibiotics and anti-inflammatory and feeling just fine.  We couldn’t pass up the offer.  The doctor picked us up and off we went.  It was spectacular.  Driving through small villages, you see very few tourists in this country, so it’s easy to get a flavor for the culture.  There are many more modern amenities than you’d imagine.  You can find just about anything you would in the states.

Driving down a dirt road with women selling fruit and barefooted children playing…we arrive at a beautiful home right on the beach.  An open air patio with incredible ocean breezes.  We’re given a room to use for changing or resting.  A lovely young Salvadorian couple live and work on the property.  They make us lunch as we listen to the Pacific waves crashing and relax in hammocks. What a way to heal from dental work. I can’t imagine doing this with my dentist in the states.  We’re being treated like family and getting great care.  Doesn’t get much better than this.  Tomorrow, Doug will get his temporary crowns and then end the day with a massage at the hotel. 

Lori Lundin is a News Anchor/Reporter with Fox News Radio