Dental Emergencies over the Holidays - How to use the Worldwide Dental Emergency Scheme.

With the Christmas holidays upon us it is worthwhile reviewing the cover that our Plan patients are entitled to under the Worldwide Dental Emergency Scheme.

We have put the following points together as a reminder of what is and is not covered during the Christmas period.

What is included

This year the Christmas holidays covered as part of the Worldwide Dental Trauma and Emergency Callout Assistance Scheme are:

• Thursday 25th December - Christmas Day

• Friday 26th December - Boxing Day

• Thursday 1st January - New Years Day

• Dental Emergencies outside of normal hours, after 6pm and before 8am

• Weekends

What is not included

• Emergencies during normal hours 8.00am to 6.00pm on the days in between Christmas and New Year - 29th to 31st December.

Please note:

• Emergency callout and treatment is for the sole purpose of immediate pain relief or following a dental trauma

• Emergencies during the day when the patient is away from home. This applies whether the patient is in the UK or abroad. Within the UK, away is considered for any location that is outside of a 15-mile radius of the registered practice.

How to get assistance

For full information on how to get help visit https://scheme.wdeas.co.uk/

Managing Toothache: Your Guide to Relief

Toothache is never fun. When you contact us, we will always ask you to describe the pain. This helps us understand the possible cause. Until we can see you, here are our top tips for managing your toothache.

Pain Management Strategies

Painkillers

Your pharmacist is the best person to talk to about the most appropriate painkiller for your toothache. It is especially important to consult them if you are on medication for any other condition. Also, check the dosage; it is possible to take too many when you are in pain. The pharmacist can advise on how to layer medications if necessary.

Pain-Relieving Gel

Your pharmacist may also recommend a topical pain reliever. Gels can be particularly effective for children, but please seek advice first. Always follow the instructions provided.

Mouth Rinse

A saltwater rinse can be soothing if you have sore gums. However, please note that this is not suitable for children. Rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.

Eating Dos and Don'ts

If you are hungry, we recommend soft foods that require minimal chewing. Yoghurt, scrambled eggs, smoothies, soups, and stews are excellent options.

Foods to Avoid

Avoid sugary foods if possible, especially if cleaning your teeth is difficult. This is not the time to feed the bad bacteria that may be lurking between your teeth.

Temperature Sensitivity

Eat food that is at room temperature, not hot or cold. Exposed nerves are very temperature sensitive, and extreme temperatures can exacerbate your discomfort.

Smoking and Dental Health

Avoid smoking, as it can worsen some dental problems. Quitting smoking can improve your overall oral health and reduce the risk of further issues.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your toothache persists despite these measures, it’s important to seek professional help. Ignoring the pain can lead to more serious issues down the line. Our team at The Old Grammar School Dental Surgery is here to provide comprehensive care for your dental needs.

Understanding the Causes of Toothache

Toothaches can arise from various causes, including cavities, gum disease, or even sinus infections. Understanding the root cause can help in managing the pain effectively.

Preventative Care

Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining oral health. They can help catch potential issues before they become serious problems. We recommend scheduling an appointment at least twice a year for a thorough examination and cleaning.

Conclusion

Managing toothache can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can find relief. Remember to consult your pharmacist for pain management options, and consider soft foods to ease discomfort. If the pain continues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at The Old Grammar School Dental Surgery. We are dedicated to providing high-quality, local dental services for the whole family.

For more information on our services, feel free to visit our website. We’re here to help you maintain a healthy smile!

How to use temporary filling and crown repair

Losing a filling or a crown is really frustrating but not always a dental emergency. While you wait to be seen by the dentist we may recommend that you use a temporary dental repair kit which you can buy from most leading chemists or online. This video explains how to use the kit.