If you're experiencing severe symptoms or dental pain, do not hesitate to reach out to your dentist. Early intervention for dental emergencies can prevent tooth loss or permanent damage.
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How to respond if you have a...
If your tooth is knocked out the first step is to stay calm and find the actual tooth. Handle it by the crown (the top), not the root, without scraping or rubbing away any tissue fragments. If the tooth is dirty, If possible you should rinse the tooth quickly in milk or some saliva to remove any dirt or debris. Then try to gently hold it in place in the socket. If you're not able to replant the tooth, keep it moist by immersing it in milk or saliva (not water), sealing it in plastic wrap, or placing it in the person's mouth next to the cheek. Time is critical in saving the tooth so contact the emergency dentist immediately for an emergency appointment.
Clean the area by rinsing the mouth with warm water. Use an ice pack wrapped in a clean towel or a cold compress on the face if needed to reduce swelling. The urgency depends on the severity but only a dentist can discern how serious the condition is. It's better to be safe than sorry – head to the surgery as soon as possible for dental treatment.
Rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. If swelling is present, place a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between your teeth. Do not put aspirin directly on your aching tooth or gums as it may burn the gum tissue. For quick dental pain relief, ask your dentist or pharmacist about any over-the-counter pain medication. If the pain persists, see your dentist as soon as possible as you may have a tooth infection.
This often occurs during eating or as a result of a fall. Clean the area gently with warm, salty water. Then apply pressure to the area with an ice pack in a clean cloth or a cold compress to the area outside to reduce bleeding and limit any swelling. If bleeding continues after about 15 minutes, see your dentist or go to the emergency room.
This is a localised infection that usually forms at the root of the tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. This painful condition can damage tissue and surrounding teeth and if left untreated, it can cause more widespread infection and may be life-threatening. So it's important to visit a dental clinic as soon as possible. Regular warm salt water rinsing can also help alleviate discomfort until you're able to see your dentist.
If a cavity develops underneath a filling or crown, it can become loose and eventually fall out. It can be rather painful because the exposed middle layer (dentine) of the tooth will be sensitive to any hot or cold foods. A new filling or crown will be needed to visit your dentist as soon as you can for a solution.
Eligible Bupa Members can enjoy more with Members First Ultimate
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on up to two 6-monthly check-up and cleans every year, claimable outside of yearly limits*
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**You can receive 100% back on dental check-up and cleans (select dental items only) once every 6 months at Members First Ultimate Providers. Waiting periods, benefit claiming restrictions, policy and fund rules apply. Excludes orthodontics and in-hospital treatments. Available on all eligible extras products which includes General Dental (excluding FLEXtras and Your Choice Extras 60 where General Dental is not included). If you choose or require any additional dental services, any health insurance benefits will also be subject to your yearly limits. Members First Ultimate Providers are not available in all areas.
^ Select direct restoration and general fillings only. Benefit claiming restrictions, waiting periods, yearly limits, fund and policy rules apply. Available on all Extras products with general dental at Members First Ultimate Providers. Not available in all areas.
† Members First Ultimate Providers are not available in all areas.
These resources are not intended to be a comprehensive list or to represent that Bupa endorses any specific health practitioner or program. Everyone’s health journey is individual and health outcomes can vary from person to person. These resources are also not intended to be a replacement for personalised and specific medical, healthcare or other professional advice. If you have any concerns about your health, see your doctor or other health professional.