Patient education: Tooth decay – ED discharge instructions (The Basics)

What are discharge instructions? — 

Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").

What should I know? — 

You came to the ED, and the doctors found you have tooth decay. This is when the enamel that covers a tooth is damaged. Then, a soft spot, hole, or "cavity" forms.

Tooth decay can happen on the tooth surface, on the tooth root where there is gum recession, or deeper in the tooth. The tooth decay will get worse if it is not repaired. Repair involves putting in a "filling."

How do I care for myself at home? — 

Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.

You should also:

●Call your regular dentist and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.

●Take non-prescription medicines to relieve pain, such as acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).

●Avoid very cold or very hot food and drinks. These can make pain worse.

●Quit smoking, if you smoke. Your doctor or nurse can help.

●Brush your teeth at least 2 times a day. Use toothpaste with fluoride. If you cannot brush your teeth after a meal, chew sugar-free gum.

●Use dental floss to clean between your teeth every day.

●See your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups.

●Eat a healthy diet. Try to avoid or limit foods and drinks that are high in acid, sugar, and starch. These include things like chocolate, sweets, and fizzy or sugary drinks. Multiple snacks during the day can increase tooth decay formation.

When should I get emergency help?

●Return to the ED if you:

•Have trouble breathing, swallowing, or chewing

•Cannot open your mouth

•Have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher or chills, and swelling of your face or neck

When should I call the doctor or dentist? — 

Call for advice if you have:

●A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills

●Swelling of your gums, neck, or face

●Discharge or pus around a tooth

●A bad taste in your mouth

●Trouble chewing

●A lot of bleeding from your gums

●New or worsening symptoms

More on this topic

Patient education: Tooth decay in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Tooth decay in children (The Basics)
Patient education: Toothache (The Basics)