Do’s and Don’ts if you suffer a dental swelling

Here’s some top advice when you need emergency dental treatment.

A dental swelling, in other words an infection in the mouth, is unfortunately something that will probably affect just about everyone at some point in their life. Sometimes the swelling can develop slowly over a number of days and often it doesn’t give any pain … at first! Others seem to appear virtually overnight and can cause considerable distress. But whichever type of swelling - whether the infection is caused by tooth decay, an abscess or other infection - emergency dental treatment is a must because without prompt attention the swelling can lead to extreme pain together with serious dental and general health issues.So if you suffer a dental swelling, here are the Top Tips from Carisbrook Dental.[caption id="attachment_3016" align="aligncenter" width="300"]

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1. DO - make an emergency dentist appointment as quickly as possible

A dental swelling is a sure sign of gum disease and that your gums are infected. Don’t delay seeking help because it will only get worse and the pain will become more and more severe. So ring your dentist and make an urgent appointment. If you cannot get an appointment or if you do not have a dentist, then call Carisbrook Dental on 0161 951 7295. We will always do our best to treat emergencies on the same day. You don’t have to be registered with us to receive emergency dental treatment but if you do wish to register you’ll be pleased to know that we are currently taking on new patients.

1. DO – take painkillers

While you are waiting for your emergency dental treatment you can take painkillers to help ease the discomfort. We recommend aspirin or Ibuprofen with paracetamol. They are all painkillers but aspirin and Ibuprofen also act to quell infections.Please beware though. You should only take asprin and Ibuprofen if you are not allergic to them. If you are in any doubt please contact your GP.

1. DON’T – place a hot water bottle on your face

OK, it may bring some temporary relief from the pain, but heat is just what the bacteria in your gum likes and the warmth will quickly accelerate the development of the infection. That will only make it worse.

1. DO – use an ice pack on your cheek

As an emergency dentist who has dealt with countless cases of dental swellings we recommend you place an ice pack on your cheek next to the infected gum. This will help to reduce the swelling and slow down the growth of the infection.

1. DO – rinse with salt-water

Particularly if the swelling is caused by an abscess or tooth decay – a salt-water rinse will help to keep the area clean and will help to prevent the infection and swelling from spreading.

1. DON’T – delay!

Speed is of the essence. The quicker you receive emergency dental treatment the better. So either call your own dentist or contact Carisbrook Dental for an emergency appointment. Call 0161 951 7295 … before it gets worse!