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Survey: Most Americans Unprepared For Dental Emergencies
Although 72 percent of Americans have fillings, caps or crowns and one in six had a dental emergency during the past 12 months, most are not prepared to deal with a dental emergency, according to a recent survey. Researchers found that socioeconomic status played a significant role in determining those who faced an oral emergency.
Interestingly, in the national survey of 1,000 Americans, those with a lower income (less then $35,000) were more likely to have had a dental emergency in the past 12 months (vs. 14 percent of those who make $100,000 or more).
Of those who had a dental emergency, 23 percent involved a loose crown or cap, 10 percent involved a lost filling, while 72 percent said their dental emergency involved something else.
Among those who had a dental emergency involving a loose crown/cap or a lost filling, 67 percent immediately went to a dentist, and 14 percent looked for a temporary solution to purchase, while 19 percent did nothing at the time.
“You keep medical supplies on hand for cuts and bruises, but what about your teeth? It’s important to be prepared for a dental emergency in case one happens, especially if the emergency occurs on a weekend when your dentist just isn’t available or you are on the road and cannot seek immediate dental care,” Brian Gold, D.D.S., who practices in Monticello, NY, said in a statement.
Dental emergencies can range from a dislodged cap/crown or lost filling to a knocked out tooth to pain or a cracked denture. Majestic Drug Company which conducted the survey explains some common dental emergencies and suggestions for treatment.
– Knocked out tooth. If a permanent tooth is dislodged from the socket, try gently replacing it into the tooth socket. Do not scrub the tooth clean–you can damage the fibers needed for reattachment. If that doesn’t work, place the tooth in a glass of milk to keep it moist and seek the professional assistance from a dentist immediately.
– Mouth pain. A throbbing pain from a toothache may indicate an infection and a dentist should be consulted as soon as possible. Tooth sensitivity can be combated by the use of desensitizing toothpaste. Irritation from mouth sores can be alleviated by the use of specialized oral pain relief products.
– Lost filling. Rinse out the cavity with warm water. Apply a temporary filling product which can be made into a ball and pressed firmly into the cavity.
– Cracked or broken denture. According to Dr. Gold, all denture wearers should have a spare pair to use until the other is repaired. If not, it is good to keep on hand an emergency denture repair kit, available at your local pharmacy.
– Dislodged cap/crown. Apply a temporary dental holding product and gently replace the cap onto the tooth. Make sure you get a proper fit.
– Irritation from Braces. Sharp wires can be coated with special dental wax available at your local pharmacy.
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