Boise Dental Tips for Memorial Day Fun

Memorial day is a very important holiday that provides us with a moment to honor and remember those we have lost, as well as the men and women who have served in the armed forces. This special day also marks the official beginning of summer in the United States with parades, picnics, BBQ’s, and relaxation. However, with all the Memorial Day fun ahead, it’s just as important to remember not to cut it short when it comes to a Boise dental emergency.

Summit Dental would like to provide you with a list of the most common Boise dental emergencies and what you can do until you can see your Boise dentist:

Toothache – If you find yourself experiencing the dull intensity of a toothache, gently brush and floss your teeth before rinsing with warm water to remove any unwanted particles that may have gotten lodged somewhere. If your toothache persists, try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever like Tylenol or Ibuprofen. Stay away from anything heat related, and try sticking to soft foods until you are able to visit your Boise dentist.  

Broken Tooth – There are a variety of Memorial Day activities that may have sounded like fun but ended up not being such a great idea. If you find yourself with a broken tooth that’s bleeding, try applying a bit of gauze to the source and apply light pressure until it stops (usually within 10 minutes). A moist tea bag can also help. If you find yourself in pain, try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever to help ensure your comfort while avoiding any hard foods. Dental wax can also help avoid any jagged edges of your broken tooth from poking into your cheeks, tongue or gums.

Knocked-Out Tooth – If you find yourself suddenly missing a tooth, the most important thing you can do is try and find it. Rinse the tooth gently in cold water (don’t scrub or use soap), and avoid touching it by the root. If the tooth is permanent, immediately try replacing it in the socket and hold it there using a clean washcloth. However, it’s important to know that you should not replace a baby tooth – doing so can damage the developing tooth below. If the above isn’t an option, place the tooth in a clean container with milk or cool water. Either way, it’s important to get to your Boise dentist ASAP. The faster you act, the better your chances are of saving the tooth.

No matter how you choose to spend the holiday, it’s important to have fun but play it safe! Happy Memorial Day!