Dental emergencies on the road

A UD truck driver once had a dental emergency on the road; this has inspired us to share with you some tips to alleviate your pain until your next dentist appointment.

Alleviating toothache 

 

Massage your gum

When you stop for a break, see if you can get hold of some ice. Rub an ice cube over the painful area – massaging in a V-shape – to reduce pain.

 

Use a cold compress

If you experience any swelling, you can apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth. You can make a cold compress by putting ice cubes into a bag or cloth and holding over the swelling. This should numb the pain and bring you some short-term relief.

 

Elevate your head

If you find your toothache throbs more when you are lying down, prop up your head with few extra pillows (or folded clothes) to alleviate the pain.

 

Use a mouthwash

Rinsing your mouth with a mouthwash can reduce sore gums and thus ease the pain. If you don’t have any mouthwash, you can make one by mixing a spoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Rinse your mouth after meals or when you need relief.

 
If none of the above help reduce the pain, then you may have to park your truck and take an over-the-counter painkiller until you can seek help from a dentist.  

Coping with a knocked-out tooth

If you knock out a tooth you need to save it carefully and see a dentist as fast as possible, preferably within the hour to have the highest chance of saving the tooth.


 

Losing a crown

If your crown falls off, save it and make an emergency appointment with your dentist to have it fitted again.

As a temporary solution, you may be able to slip the crown back over your tooth and glue it in place with dental cement available at most pharmacies or drugstores.


 

Managing an abscess

Abscesses develop between the teeth and the gums or at the root of a tooth. Apart from being extremely painful, an abscess is a serious condition that needs medical attention. A dentist will possibly drain the abscess and probably prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection.

If you can’t get dental care quickly, then try rinsing your mouth with a mild salt mouthwash several times a day and take a painkiller to reduce pain.



 
If you keep a mini travel kit when you’re trucking, add a minimalist tooth kit for any dental emergencies: toothbrush, toothpaste, small bottle of mouthwash, dental floss and painkillers.

Please keep in mind seeking a dentist is always your number one priority. UD Trucks wishes you safe and healthy travels on the road!

The Roads team would like to hear from UD Truckers around the world! Send us your tips from your roads! Write to us at: roadsmagazine@udtrucks.co.jp