Dental Pain During Quarantine? Get 4 Tips From An Emergency Dentist

In recent weeks, people all over the country have been self-isolating at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. And while dental offices have been closed for routine care under the guidelines of the CDC, they’re still open for dental emergencies. But what if you have sudden dental pain and can’t get in for an appointment right away? In that case, use the 4 tips below to manage your pain until you can see an emergency dentist in Orlando!

1. A Broken Tooth or Filling

As needed, use dental wax from the store to cover any sharp edges and prevent your tongue from getting irritated. Also, chew on the opposite side to avoid further breaking your tooth. If you’re in pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your lip or cheek and use over-the-counter pain medication as directed.

2. Toothache

Start by flossing to remove any food debris and then swish with lukewarm saltwater several times. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your lip or cheek in 15-minute increments to reduce inflammation and take over-the-counter pain medication as directed until your appointment.

3. Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is especially time-sensitive and has the best chance of being saved if you’re seen within an hour. It’s also important to handle the tooth correctly to keep it healthy in the meantime.

Only touch the tooth by the crown, not the root, and give it a quick rinse. Adults can try putting it back in its socket (this shouldn’t be done for kids because they’re more likely to swallow it.) If that’s not possible, put it in a glass of milk or hold it in your cheek pouch. You must keep the tooth moist but only use tap water as a last resort because it can damage the cells on the root of the tooth.

4. An Infection or Abscess

A pimple-like bump on your gums, fever, and/or facial swelling are all signs of a dental infection or abscess. Since infection can spread to other areas of the body and become dangerous or even life-threatening, be sure to call a dentist in Orlando right away. They’ll arrange to see you as soon as possible and may also prescribe antibiotics to be started right away. For pain, use over-the-counter pain medication and apply an ice pack to your lip or cheek for 15 minutes at a time.

If you have a dental emergency while self-isolating at home, stay calm and call an emergency dentist to schedule the first available appointment. If you can’t be seen immediately, these 4 tips will help you alleviate any pain and stay comfortable until your visit.

About the Author

Dr. John Russo has been serving his community as a general and emergency dentist in Orlando for more than 25 years and is a native of the area. He’s committed to helping his patients maintain their oral health during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to be open for emergency care. If you’re having a dental emergency or have any questions, he’s just a phone call away and can be reached via his website or at (407) 470-1224.