What do you if have a huge painful cavity and part of your tooth broke off adult is right underneath the tooth?
If you have a huge painful cavity and part of your tooth has broken off, exposing your dental pulp (also called the "tooth nerve"), it is essential to seek immediate dental care. Here's what you can do:
1. Emergency Dental Visit:
- Call your dentist or an emergency dental clinic as soon as possible to notify them of your condition and request an urgent appointment.
2. Pain Management:
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), to alleviate dental pain until you can see the dentist.
3. Tooth Protection:
- Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth to prevent further damage to the tooth.
- Use soft foods and avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the sensitive tooth.
4. Cold Compress:
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your cheek, near the affected tooth, for short intervals to reduce swelling and discomfort.
5. Oral Hygiene:
- Maintain good oral hygiene practices, including gentle brushing and flossing, but be cautious around the sensitive tooth.
6. Dental Pulp Therapy:
- Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may recommend a root canal treatment to save the tooth. This procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp and cleaning and sealing the root canal space.
7. Crown Placement:
- If the tooth structure is compromised, your dentist might suggest placing a dental crown (cap) over the affected tooth to restore its strength and function.
8. Tooth Extraction:
- In severe cases where the tooth is unsalvageable, your dentist may need to extract the tooth. Afterward, you may consider replacing the missing tooth with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture.
9. Post-Treatment Care:
- After receiving dental treatment, follow your dentist's instructions carefully, such as taking prescribed medications and maintaining proper dental hygiene.
Remember, it is crucial to seek prompt dental attention when you experience severe dental pain and tooth damage, as it can prevent complications and ensure better oral health outcomes.