What to do in the event of…
While we’re confident that regular visits to Lindley Dental and a good oral care routine will prevent many of the sudden dental problems that people frequently encounter, we can’t be with you 24 hours a day and mishaps sometimes happen! We’ve prepared this brief Help & Guidance page to help you along.
Toothache & Sensitivity
Handling mild toothache or sensitivity to hot and cold…
Keep extremes of temperature away from your tooth. Try taking a painkiller, such as one you would regularly take for a headache (e.g. paracetamol). You should then contact the Practice to make an appointment – you may need urgent treatment such as a new filling.
What to do in cases of severe toothache…
There’s no mistaking the pain of a severe toothache – it keeps you awake at night and is very distressing. There may also be some swelling – painkillers will help (Ibuprofen is best) but they may not take away the pain entirely. Contact the Practice and we will see you as soon as possible!
Pain Following an Extraction
Dealing with severe pain following an extraction…
Mild pain or discomfort is quite normal following an extraction, but occasionally the site may not heal correctly, resulting in a “dry socket”. This is an infection of the socket which usually causes severe toothache two to three days after the extraction.
You should contact the practice to have the socket dressed. Please ring during surgery hours and we will see you as soon as possible.
De-cemented Crowns
Coping with dislodged or de-cemented crowns…
If a front crown becomes de-cemented this can be very embarrassing. Please contact the Practice during working hours and we will see you as soon as possible to re-cement it for you. Out of hours, you could use denture fixture or sugar-free chewing gum as a quick temporary fix!
Trauma
What to do if a tooth has been knocked out…
If a tooth is knocked out completely do not panic. If possible find the tooth and if it is clean to push it back into the socket, then get to the Practice promptly. If the tooth is clean but you are unable to replace it, store the tooth just inside your mouth. Alternatively, keep it from drying out by placing it in milk. Ring ahead (if possible) and go straight to the practice during surgery hours.
The more quickly the tooth is replaced the more chance it has of surviving. Teeth pushed out of line also need prompt attention. If the accident happens outside of surgery hours use the emergency number (above).