3 Oral Health Quick Fix Myths Debunked by an Emergency Dentist

Oral health myths can often lead to misguided attempts to solve dental problems, potentially making things worse. Emergency and general dentists frequently treat patients who have attempted (and failed) to manage dental emergencies with these quick fixes. Debunking common myths about oral health can save patients time, money, and trouble. Along with that, debunking these myths can give them an idea of when to see an emergency dentist sooner rather than later.

Debunking oral health quick-fix myths

Myth: Aspirin on a toothache will stop pain instantly

A common belief is that placing an aspirin on a painful tooth or gum area will help alleviate the discomfort. While aspirin can help reduce pain when taken orally, applying it directly to the tooth or gum area can cause harm. Aspirin is an acidic substance that can burn the soft tissues in the mouth. Further, it does not address the underlying cause of the toothache, which may involve infection, decay, or damage to the tooth.

Patients need to consult an emergency dentist to manage tooth pain effectively. These general dentists have the training needed to identify the source of the pain and provide the appropriate treatment. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain medications taken as directed can provide temporary relief.

Myth: A loose tooth can be fixed at home

Another common myth that emergency dentists frequently encounter is the belief that a loose tooth, particularly in adults, can be fixed at home. While loose baby teeth in children naturally fall out on their own, a loose adult tooth (permanent tooth) may indicate a serious underlying issue such as gum disease, infection, or trauma. Attempting to fix a loose tooth at home can exacerbate the problem.

A loose permanent tooth is a good reason to consult an emergency dentist. They can assess whether it is possible to save the tooth or if further action is necessary. If a tooth extraction is the best course of action, a general dentist can provide tooth replacement options.

Myth: A knocked-out tooth can be put back in without a dentist

The last common myth to debunk is that a knocked-out tooth can be placed back into the socket without needing a dentist. While it is true that a knocked-out tooth can sometimes be reimplanted, it requires immediate professional care. Time is of the essence when dealing with a knocked-out tooth. The longer the tooth is left outside the mouth, the lower the chances of successful reimplantation.

An emergency dentist has the proper tools and expertise to properly handle and reimplant a tooth, significantly improving the likelihood of saving it. It is crucial to seek emergency dental care immediately after a tooth is knocked out. Until the dentist can provide treatment, the tooth should be kept moist, ideally in a container of milk or saliva.