Dental problems such as toothache, a broken tooth, a lost filling or dental trauma can sometimes occur unexpectedly. Keeping a small dental first-aid kit at home may help you manage some minor issues temporarily until you can arrange professional assessment.
Why Do I Need an Emergency Dentistry Kit?
A dental first-aid kit can keep basic supplies available for temporary use if a minor dental problem occurs outside normal appointment hours. It does not replace assessment by a dentist, particularly where there is significant pain, swelling, bleeding or dental trauma.
What Should Be in My Emergency Dentistry Kit?
Items you may consider keeping in a dental first-aid kit include:
Pain Relief
- Over-the-counter pain relief: If you are considering pain medication, follow the product instructions and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure whether it is suitable for you.
Oral Care Essentials
- Dental floss: This may be useful if food becomes trapped between teeth and can be removed without forcing the floss into painful or swollen tissues.
- Mouth rinse: If you use a mouth rinse, follow the product instructions and understand that it does not replace brushing, interdental cleaning or dental assessment.
For Temporary Fixes
- Temporary dental filling material: Some pharmacy products are intended for short-term use after a filling is lost. Follow the product instructions carefully and arrange dental assessment because temporary material does not replace a permanent restoration.
- Temporary dental cement: Some pharmacy products are intended for short-term use with a loose restoration. Follow the product instructions and do not use household glue or other adhesives in the mouth.
- Dental wax: Dental wax may be used temporarily over a sharp edge that is irritating the tongue or cheek, where it can be applied without forcing material into the tooth.
What to Do With a Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
Time is critical when dealing with a knocked-out tooth! Here’s what you’ll need to act fast:
If a permanent tooth has been knocked out and cannot be repositioned, keep it moist while arranging urgent dental care. Ask a dentist or emergency service for guidance on the most appropriate storage method.
Additional Items to Consider
- Gauze pads: These may be useful for applying gentle pressure to minor oral bleeding while further care is arranged where needed.
- Dental mirror: This may help you see the location of a visible dental problem, but it should not be used to probe or manipulate teeth or gums.
- Cold compress: A cold pack wrapped in cloth may be applied externally for short periods after some dental injuries while assessment is arranged.
Keeping Your Kit Stocked and Ready
- Sturdy container: Choose a small, portable container that can easily fit in your purse, backpack, or glove compartment.
- Label it clearly: Mark it as your “Emergency Dentistry Kit” for easy identification.
- Check the kit periodically and replace expired or used products according to their storage and disposal instructions.
A dental first-aid kit is intended only for temporary measures and does not replace professional assessment. Seek urgent dental care for significant pain, dental trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, swelling, pus or other concerning symptoms.
Difficulty breathing, significant difficulty swallowing, rapidly increasing facial or neck swelling, or bleeding that cannot be controlled requires urgent medical assessment.
What a Dental First-Aid Kit Can and Cannot Do
Keeping a small dental first-aid kit may be useful for temporary measures after some minor dental problems. It should not delay professional assessment where there is significant pain, swelling, trauma, infection or bleeding.
