A dental emergency can be frightening and disorienting, but it doesn't have to be. If your friend has a dental emergency, there are steps you can take to help them get the care they need and reduce their stress during this difficult time. Read on to discover more!

Remain calm

The first step is to remain calm and comfort your friend. Dental emergencies can be very upsetting, so it's important that you provide reassurance and support for your friend throughout the process. Let them know that everything is going to be alright and that you're there for them no matter what. If possible, stay with them until they receive treatment.

Seek immediate treatment

Dental emergencies should never wait until later. Delays in treatment can lead to further complications or even permanent damage in some cases. If your friend is able, take them directly to an emergency dentist as soon as possible. For example, if they have a toothache or sudden swelling around their gums, they may need antibiotics or other medication right away before any further treatment can proceed. It can also be helpful to call ahead and explain the situation so that the clinic knows what type of emergency they are dealing with and how quickly they need assistance.

Collect any broken pieces of teeth

If your friend has a chipped or broken tooth, it is important to try and collect any pieces that may have come off. Be sure to handle these pieces carefully and place them in a sealed container with some milk. This will help preserve the pieces so a dentist can attempt to reattach them during treatment if they are still viable.

Follow aftercare instructions

Once your friend has seen an emergency dentist and gotten the necessary treatment, make sure they follow up with their regular dentist for any additional care instructions, such as changing their diet or taking antibiotics as prescribed. Additionally, encourage them not to ignore any future warning signs of a dental problem, such as pain or discomfort in the mouth area, so that it does not become more severe in the future.

Summary

Taking proper action when faced with a dental emergency can make a massive difference to the outcome of treatment - so don't hesitate! If your friend has a dental emergency, remind them that seeking immediate attention is key while also providing comfort and reassurance throughout each step of the process. If you would like to know more, contact a local dental office today.