| Having Dr Murrays Number with other emergency numbers on the
refrigerator, in case a dental emergency occurs, is very helpful. Here are some
time saving tips to remember for dental emergencies.
Chipped Tooth
A chipped tooth is the most common, and most easily treatable, dental injury.
In order to save your child’s teeth, there are some precautions and tips to keep
in mind when faced with chipped or broken/knocked-out teeth:
- Find all parts of the chipped tooth and remember to handle the tooth by
the top, not the root.
- Do not clean or handle the tooth unnecessarily.
- Do insert the tooth into the socket, if possible. If the tooth cannot be
reinserted, place it in a cup of milk or water.
- Call Dr Murray as soon as possible.
Broken Braces
For children who have broken braces sticking out, cover the sharp or
protruding portion with cotton balls, gauze, or chewing gum. If a wire is stuck
in the gums, cheek, or tongue, do not remove it. Instead, leave the broken
pieces to be fixed by a dentist.
Most types of tooth injuries are characterized by the damage done to the two
primary tissue structures: the hard tissue of the tooth and the soft tissue, or
pulp, located inside the tooth.
Often when a child receives a blow to the mouth, he/she does not suffer from
any visible tooth damage, but still may have damage to the soft tissue inside
the tooth. In such cases, a tooth may begin to turn pink and then slowly turn
gray. In this case, usually a root canal procedure is required.
Children are exposed to all sorts of mishaps that may cause tooth injuries.
When it comes to sports, tooth injuries should be prevented with the protection
provided by mouth guards. Custom-made mouth guards made by dentists can offer
better security than the standard mouth guards sold at stores.
Emergency Tips
As with all emergencies, call Dr Murray and if he cannot be reached go
immediately to your nearest emergency room. |
