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You probably have a first aid kit in your home that has everything you might need in the case of a minor emergency. It likely includes bandages, antibiotic ointment, allergy medication, a pain reliever and medication for nausea or heartburn. Have you ever thought about putting together a dental first aid kit as well? Having the items on hand that you might need in case of a lost filling, a sudden toothache or other minor dental emergency can help you stay calm and comfortable if you end up with a dental problem when the office is closed. Here are some items to consider putting in your dental first aid kit.

Ice Pack

If you end up with any type of trauma to your mouth, it’s likely to be painful and might get swollen. If you can apply an ice pack right away, this will help keep the swelling down and relieve pain. You can keep some in the freezer, or you can buy one of the “squeeze and shake” kind that require no refrigeration. If you do need to use it, try to keep it on for 20 minutes, then take a break for 20 minute, then repeat. Prolonged or excessive cold can do more harm than good, so if it’s too cold for comfort, wrap it in a washcloth or a paper towel.

Pain Reliever

It’s likely that you already have Tylenol, Motrin, or some other over-the-counter pain reliever in your first aid kit, but if you don’t, go pick up a bottle to keep wih your dental emergency kit. A broken tooth or an infection can cause a lot of discomfort, and if you can take a mild painkiller, that will at least take the edge off until you can see the dentist.

Temporary Filling Material

Visit your pharmacy and look in the dental health aisle for a tube of temporary dental filling material. This can save you a lot of hassle if you have a lost filling or if a crown falls out on an evening or weekend. All you need to do is pack it into the hole (or use it as a temporary glue under a crown) and it will hold up for a couple of days until you can get into the office. As a side benefit, many of these temporary fillings contain clove oil, which will settle down a tooth that’s aching from the lost filling or missing crown.

Dental Wax

A small jar of dental wax can help keep you more comfortable if you chip a tooth and have a sharp spot. It’s also a lifesaver for those who wear braces; if you don’t wear them, you might have a family member or friend who has an uncomfortable bracket or loose wire. The wax makes it less sharp and protects the cheeks, lips, tongue and gums.

Adding these items to your first aid kit will allow you to temporarily treat minor dental emergencies without rushing off to an emergency clinic after hours or on the weekend. You can ask your dentist for a recommendation if you aren’t sure what brands or types to buy. Give our office a call if you have questions or if you need to schedule an appointment.