Some Tips from an Emergency Dentist in Gainesville on Creating Your Own Dental First Aid Kit

All of us have the need for an emergency dentist in Gainesville from time to time. Even those of us who take splendid care of our teeth and gums can have occasional mishaps that require immediate attention. When this happens, a dental first aid kit can help you to manage the situation until you’re able to get professional care.

The Essentials of a Good Dental First Aid Kit

You can purchase ready-made dental emergency kits online or at many local retailers. However, assembling your own version can save you time and ensure that you have the right supplies on hand. Here’s what your kit should contain:

1. Medical gloves. These are important for the wearer’s comfort and safety. Dental emergencies often involve blood and saliva.
2. A dental mirror. This will enable you to see what’s going on inside the injured person’s mouth. It’s a good idea to have a small flashlight with extra batteries in your kit as well.
3. Benzocaine dental base. You’ll find this on the market under product names like Orabase®. It’s used to relieve pain and aid healing of mouth and canker sores. Important note: you never use benzocaine products to relieve teething or for children two years old or under.
4. Dental floss. You can use this to remove foreign objects that have become lodged in between teeth. You should choose a thinner brand that will fit in-between most people’s teeth comfortably.
5. Pain reliever. Over-the-counter products like aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can relieve discomfort while the patient is waiting to see a dentist.
6. Pain relieving gel. You’ll find these on the market under product names like Orajel®. They’re used for providing immediate relief from toothache pain.
7. An instant cold pack. Unlike conventional ice packs, these products contain packaged water and ammonium nitrate mix, both separated by a thin membrane. When the product is squeezed, the membrane breaks, mixing the water and ammonium nitrate together. This creates instant cold without the need for refrigeration or freezing. It’s a handy way to provide immediate pain relief.
8. Contact information. Your kit should have the number for your dentist in Gainesville, as well as numbers for close friends and family members.

Packaging for Your Dental First Aid Kit

Just as important as having the right supplies for your kit is having the right container for it. Here are some suggestions:

• You can find plastic containers on the market that are designed specifically to hold first aid supplies. These are usually marked with the universal first aid symbol on the outside. They often include small vials and pouches in which you can store the materials.
• A small travel or toiletry bag is another option . You may want to mark the outside of the bag so that anyone who sees it will know its purpose.
• A school-sized backpack will work as well. It offers spacious room for supplies and is easy to carry on trips and outdoor outings.

It always pays to be prepared for the unexpected. Assembling a dental first aid kit takes only a little bit of time and expense. But it can save you or a loved one from needless suffering, should an oral health emergency arise. That’s the kind of investment that pays off with real peace of mind.

About the Author

Dr. Gabriel A. Nossa earned his DMD degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He has also completed advanced training in general dentistry and other aspects of dental care. You can reach his office online or by calling (352) 745-3765.