When you think about a natural disaster, your oral health is likely not the first thing you consider. However, it is important to keep these tips in mind because dental problems can arise when you least expect them.
When a disaster strikes, don't worry about these things:
Routine exams or cleanings: Unless you are currently in serious pain or discomfort, you can delay a routine dental exam or cleaning during this time. Just make yourself a reminder to reschedule your routine appointments when you can.
Regular orthodontics: If a natural disaster delays a normal orthodontic appointment, it's nothing to worry about. If you miss an adjustment, there is no danger to your dental health or dangerous side effects. However, if you are having an orthodontic emergency and your orthodontist is not available, consider contacting a regular dentist because they can usually help in the meantime.
Temporary crowns or bridges: Avoid eating or chewing on hard or sticky foods to keep your temporary crown or bridge safely in place until you can be seen by a dentist. You typically have up to a month after placement of a temporary crown or bridge to get it checked and possibly recemented.
What to do if you have a dental emergency:
If you end up dealing with a dental emergency during a disaster, try to stay calm while you look for prompt professional care. You should visit a dentist as soon as possible if you experience any of these problems:
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Serious tooth injury
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oral pain
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swelling
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bleeding
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Accessing care may take longer than usual, so here are are some ways that you can handle common issues while waiting:
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For injured teeth: Try to stabilize the tooth with a moist tissue or gauze while waiting for your dentist. If your tooth has been knocked out, try to recover the tooth and gently rinse it. Then, place the tooth between your cheek and gums or wrap it in a clean cloth or gauze soaked in milk or saline solution. Keeping the tooth moist can increase the odds it will be able to be re-implanted, but it's crucial to see a dentist as soon as possible.
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For pain or swelling: Soak a piece of gauze or a clean cloth in warm water and gently clean the affected area. You can also apply an ice compress.
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For bleeding: Apply firm pressure to the injured area with gauze, a cotton ball, or a clean cloth until you can see your dentist.
What to do if you still can't find care:
Depending on the situation, local, state or federal governments may respond by offering emergency oral health care or medical services. To find out if oral health care services are available in your area, call your local health department or listen for public safety announcements through media.
Most importantly, don't ignore the dental pain and think it will go away on its own. Dental infections can spread into your bloodstream and cause serious health problems.
If you aren't able to find dental care for an extended period due to the natural disaster, contact us to see if we can help you access care.
Watch your water!
Contaminated water is a serious threat to your oral and overall health after any natural disaster. Be careful not to brush your teeth, wash your hands, prepare food, or wash dishes with contaminated water. To learn more about making water safe during an emergency, refer to this flyer from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Be prepared for the future
To help prepare for disasters, consider keeping an emergency kit on hand, one that includes items that could be useful if dental issues arise. Check that your disaster emergency kit includes:
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Gauze and cotton balls to stop bleeding and protect injured areas of the mouth
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A flashlight to see inside the mouth
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Mild soap and plenty of bottled water for rinsing and cleaning injuries
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Salt to make mouthwash, or saline solution, for rinsing the mouth
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A pair of rubber gloves for inspecting injuries
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Acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain
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Instant cold ice packs to treat swelling
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Up-to-date supplies of any prescribed oral medications you may need
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Your dentist’s phone number
Delta Dental of North Carolina is here to help!
If you are a group administrator or broker, please contact your account manager or account executive for any assistance you may need during this time.
If you are an individual, family plan or group member, you may visit the Contact Us page for more information or reference the information below for member support and claims.
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Member portal & individual member support Group member support |
800-971-4108 866-662-8856 |
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Claims mailing address
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Delta Dental |
Useful resources and ways to give
Are you looking for ways to stay informed - below are some helpful links to information dedicated to Western North Carolina relief efforts.
NC Department of Public Safety: Hurricane Helene | NC DPS
Blue Ridge Public Radio: List: Ways to donate and help flood victims in Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene (bpr.org
Appalachian Voices: Catastrophic impacts from Tropical Storm Helene devastate Appalachia < Appalachian Voices (appvoices.org
Center for Resilience and Learning: Resource Guide for teachers, parents, and kids
Consider donating to the following organizations: