Quick Answer
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe tooth pain, especially if it's accompanied by swelling, bleeding, or difficulty swallowing. Other indicators include fever, chills, or a foul odor emanating from the affected tooth. If you're in a wilderness setting, prioritize treating the pain to maintain vital function.
Assessing the Injury
When assessing a tooth injury, consider the severity of the damage. A lost filling or a broken tooth may not always require emergency attention, but if the tooth is cracked or severely damaged, it may need to be extracted to prevent further complications. If you’re in a wilderness setting, prioritize finding a medical professional or using temporary fixes to stabilize the tooth.
Temporary Fixes
Temporary fixes can help manage pain and prevent further complications. For a lost filling, use a temporary filling material like Cavit or Temp-Bond to seal the tooth. For a broken tooth, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and use an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If you have a dental emergency kit, use a tooth repair kit to temporarily fix a broken tooth.
Wilderness Dental Emergency Protocol
In a wilderness setting, follow the “ABCs” of dental emergency care: Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. Ensure the patient has a clear airway and is able to breathe comfortably. Next, check for any bleeding and apply pressure to stop it. Finally, assess the patient’s circulation and provide any necessary pain relief. If you’re unable to find a medical professional, use temporary fixes to stabilize the patient and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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