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Summer is almost here. As the weather warms, more families will be traveling away from home. Whether your destination is a weekend at the shore or a week in Waikiki, a participating Delta Dental dentist is probably nearby. Three out of four dentists nationwide participate in the Delta Dental network.
While you probably aren't planning a dental visit during vacation, it's nice to know you're covered if you have a dental emergency.
What to do in an emergency
Dental emergencies may be categorized as toothaches, injuries or broken retainers or dentures.
Toothache: If a toothache develops, clean the painful area using a brush and floss. Rinse with warm salt water. Do not place an aspirin on the gums or tooth as this may cause a burn. Apply a cold compress to any facial swelling. Take acetaminophen (for example,
Tylenol7) and call a dentist as soon as possible.
Lost (Avulsed) Tooth: If a permanent tooth is knocked completely out, time is of the essence. Immediately call a dentist for an emergency appointment. It is critical to get the person and his or her tooth to the dental office within one half hour. This makes it possible to re-implant the tooth with a high degree of success. If possible, gently place the tooth back in its socket as a means of transport. Otherwise, transport it in a cup of milk, salt water, or saliva. If none of these are available, use a cup of plain water. You may also place the tooth between the cheek and gum (unless the child is too young).
Loosened (Extruded) Teeth: If a tooth is pushed either inward or outward, try to reposition it using very little pressure. Do not force the tooth into its socket. Try to get the injured person to a dentist as soon as possible. The tooth may be stabilized and held in place with a moist tissue or gauze on the way.
Broken (Fractured) Teeth: First rinse the mouth with warm water to keep it clean. Immediate dental care is necessary. The treatment will depend on the severity of the fracture and could range from smoothing out the chip to bonding with a tooth-colored resin material, to placing a crown or cap on the tooth. If there has been pulp (nerve) injury, a root canal may be necessary as well.
Soft Tissue Injury: The tongue, lips or cheeks may be bitten, cut or punctured. If there is bleeding, apply firm pressure with gauze or a clean cloth. If bleeding doesn't stop within 15 minutes, contact a dentist immediately. Stitches may be necessary. Otherwise, clean the area with either warm water on gauze or a clean cloth. Apply an ice compress to the bruised or swollen area and contact your dentist for further instructions.
How to find a participating dentist away from home
The "Find a Dentist" feature on Delta Dental Plan of New Jersey's Web site (www.deltadentalnj.com) enables you to search for participating dentists by name, location and specialty throughout New Jersey and Connecticut, and anywhere in the United States. Or, you may call (800) DELTA-OK (335-8265). |
