April 09, 2004

By: Rachel Zelmer
Website: http://www.teeth-whitening-smiles.com

Dental Products – No Substitute For The Dentist

With everything from toothache drops to temporary fillings available at drug stores these days, the Massachusetts Dental Society warns consumers that while many of these over-the-counter products offer temporary relief, they are no substitute for seeking treatment when a serious dental health problems arises.

Usually when a dental problem occurs that requires some type of temporary relief, it’s the result of decay, a lost filling or crown, trauma, or an infection, says Dr. James Cinamon, an MDS member and general dentist in Framingham. These are problems that must be treated by a dentist or more serious problems could result.

If a lost filling, loose crown, or decay has resulted in a hole in a tooth, a temporary filling material can be purchased without a prescription. However, patients must understand that the filling material’s effect is very short term and the underlying cause of the problem must be addressed by a dental professional immediately. If treatment is not sought quickly, there is a chance that the tooth can be permanently lost, says Dr. Cinamon.

In the case of gums swelling or an abscessed tooth, some over-the-counter rinses containing antiseptic can be helpful. Swelling near the gum line may simply be the result of an impacted food particle, such as a popcorn kernel, notes Dr. Cinamon.

Rinsing frequently and vigorously with mouth rinses or warm salt water may offer relief. However, be sure to see a dentist to determine the reason for the swelling or abscess. The pain and the problem may only get worse if it’s not treated properly. If something is caught in between teeth, the MDS recommends gently trying to remove the object with dental floss. If that doesn’t work, contact a dentist. Never try to remove any object with a sharp or pointed instrument, since this may cause further damage to your teeth or gums, advises Dr. Cinamon.

Canker sores, which occur inside the mouth, can be relieved by rinsing with over-the-counter antimicrobial mouthrinses. If the canker sore is not healed within 7 to 10 days, Dr. Cinamon recommends that you contact your dentist.

In the case of a toothache, patients can buy toothache drops or a toothache kit that contain a weak anesthetic. This will relieve pain temporarily, but it’s important to contact a dentist as soon as possible to determine what the source of the pain is.

Dr. Cinamon adds, however, that if a tooth has been broken or displaced, there are no over-the-counter products that can help. Patients should get to a dentist or hospital emergency room immediately. Saving the tooth depends entirely on what is done within the next 30 to 60 minutes.

If a tooth is knocked out, replant the tooth by biting down gently on a towel or handkerchief. If replanting is not possible, place the tooth in between the cheek and gums or in cold milk, water, or wrap the tooth in a saline-based soaked gauze.

The important thing for patients to be of aware of when using these store-bought dental products is that they don’t fix serious problems—your dentist does.

Author Notes:

Rachel Zelmer contributes and publishes news editorial to http://www.teeth-whitening-smiles.com.  Everything you need to know to get a whiter, brighter smile!