Survey shows most Americans are not prepared to deal with dental emergency

Although 72 percent of Americans have fillings, caps or crowns, most are not prepared to deal with a dental emergency, according to a survey conducted by Majestic Drug Company, a leading provider of oral care products.

"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 when you are on the road and cannot seek immediate dental care or if the emergency occurs when your dentist just isn't available," according to Brian Gold, D.D.S. of Monticello, N.Y.

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 explains some common dental emergencies and suggestions for treatment.

• Tooth sensitivity.  Almost 50% of adults suffer from sensitive teeth. A first aid product such as Senzzzzz Away® eliminates current sensitivity to cold, sweet and hot foods and liquids, as well as prevents future flair-ups.
• Lost filling.  Rinse out the cavity with warm water. Apply a temporary filling product such as Dentemp® O.S. or Refilit® which can be made into a ball and pressed firmly into the cavity.
• Dislodged cap/crown.  Apply a temporary dental holding product such as Dentemp® O.S. or Recapit® and gently replace the cap onto the tooth. 
• Cracked or broken denture.  According to dental experts, all denture wearers should have a spare pair to use until the other is repaired. If not, buy an emergency denture repair kit such as Repair-It® at your local pharmacy. 
• Mouth pain.  A throbbing pain from a toothache, braces or mouth sores can be irritating. To quell your discomfort try using oral pain swabs such as Orajel™.
• Braces.  Sharp wires can be coated with special dental wax such as DentaKit or GUM®.
• 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. Get to a dentist immediately.

Remember, temporary dental solutions are just that—they are temporary.  Make sure to seek professional assistance from your dentist as soon as possible.