As the leaves have dropped from the trees and the temperature drops, many Manitobans gear up for a season full of winter sports and school activities. Hockey, basketball, and other contact sports become a staple for both students and adults alike. While these are great for staying active and fostering teamwork, they can sometimes lead to unexpected dental emergencies! At Dental Image Therapy Centres, we're here to guide you through what to do in case of common dental emergencies.

Dental Toothache

Toothaches can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and they often indicate an underlying issue that needs professional attention. If you or your child experiences a toothache, follow these steps:

1. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gently rinse your mouth. This can help reduce inflammation and clean out any debris that might be causing irritation.

2. Sometimes, a toothache can be caused by food particles lodged between teeth. Gently floss around the affected tooth to see if this alleviates the pain.

3. If the toothache is accompanied by swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and numb the pain.

4. While over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, do not place aspirin or other painkillers directly on the tooth or gums as this can cause tissue damage.

5. Persistent toothaches should never be ignored. Press the Orange Book Online Button on this page to book an appointment as soon as possible.

A Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth, also known as an avulsed tooth, is one of the most serious dental emergencies. Acting quickly can mean the difference between saving and losing the tooth.

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root. Touching the root can damage the cells necessary for reattachment.

2. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments.

3. If you can, try to reinsert the tooth into its socket and hold it in place by biting down gently on a piece of clean cloth or gauze. If this isn't possible, keep the tooth moist.

4. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, place it in a container of milk or saliva. Avoid storing it in water as this can damage the root cells.

5. Time is critical. The best chance of saving the tooth is within an hour of the injury. Call your dentist immediately to schedule an emergency visit.  

A Chipped or Broken Tooth

Chipping or breaking a tooth can be painful and should be addressed quickly to prevent further damage or infection.

1. Use warm water to rinse your mouth and clean the affected area.

2. If you have any pieces of the broken tooth, place them in a container and bring them to your dentist.

3. If the break has caused sharp or jagged edges, cover the tooth with a piece of sugar-free gum or dental wax to protect your tongue and cheek from cuts.

4. Depending on the severity of the break, treatment could range from a simple filling to more complex procedures like crowns or veneers.‍

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While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of dental injuries:

1. If you or your child participate in contact sports like hockey or basketball, wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard can significantly reduce the risk of dental injuries.

2. Refrain from chewing on ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candies, as these can potentially crack or chip your teeth.

3. Maintaining good oral health through regular dental visits can help prevent issues that may lead to emergencies.

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We encourage you to contact us immediately if you experience any of the issues mentioned above, as timely intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your dental health. Our skilled dental professionals are equipped to handle a wide range of emergency situations and are dedicated to restoring your oral health and comfort as quickly as possible.

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In addition to emergency care, we are here to offer guidance and advice on how to prevent dental injuries, especially with the increased risks associated with winter sports and school activities. Don’t let a dental emergency catch you off guard—reach out to us at the first sign of trouble!

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