Choking Emergencies: Steps for Orthodontists to Save a Life

As an orthodontist, you are an expert in creating beautiful smiles and ensuring the oral health of your patients. But what happens when an emergency arises in your dental office?

One of the most critical situations you may encounter is a choking emergency. Preparing and knowing the steps to take can make a lifesaving difference.

This blog post will guide you through the essential steps for orthodontists and orthodontic assistants in the Peel Region, specifically Mississauga, and Brampton, to handle choking emergencies confidently and professionally.

How to Respond to Severe Choking Emergencies in 5 Steps

Choking occurs when an object becomes lodged in the airway, blocking airflow and making breathing difficult or impossible.

As an orthodontist or orthodontic assistant, you may encounter this emergency due to various factors, such as loose orthodontic wires, broken brackets, or accidental ingestion of foreign objects.

Understanding the severity of choking emergencies and responding promptly to prevent further complications is crucial.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

When faced with a choking emergency, staying calm and assessing the situation quickly is vital. Determine if the individual can speak, cough, or breathe - if yes, encourage coughing. Immediate action is required if they cannot make any sound or have difficulty breathing.

Step 2: Activate Emergency Response

In any medical emergency, time is of the essence. Activate your emergency response system depending on the severity of the situation and your office protocols. This may involve alerting other staff members, calling 911, and preparing to provide immediate assistance.

Step 3: Perform the Abdominal Thrust

Abdominal thrusts, commonly known as "the Heimlich maneuver," is a lifesaving technique used to dislodge an object blocking the airway. If the individual can no longer breath, speak, or cough, follow these steps:

1. Stand behind the choking individual and wrap your arms around their waist.
2. Make a fist with one hand and place the thumb against the person's abdomen, slightly above the navel and below the ribcage.
3. Grasp your fist with your other hand and give quick, upward thrusts into the abdomen, using firm pressure.
4. Repeat the thrusts until the object is dislodged or until emergency medical personnel arrive.

Remember to apply enough force to be effective, but be cautious to avoid causing injury.

Step 4: Provide Supportive Care

Once the object is dislodged, provide immediate supportive care to the individual. Reassure them and monitor their breathing and overall condition. If necessary, administer first aid measures such as CPR or rescue breaths.

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention

Even if the choking episode has been successfully resolved, advising the individual to seek immediate medical attention is crucial. This ensures that any potential injuries or complications are properly assessed and treated.

Preventing Choking Emergencies in Your Dental Office

While preparing to handle choking emergencies is crucial, prevention is always the best approach. Here are some proactive measures you can take to minimize the risk of choking incidents in your orthodontic practice:

• Educate patients about the potential risks of certain foods and habits that may lead to choking.
• Encourage patients to maintain good oral hygiene and follow proper care instructions for orthodontic appliances.
• Regularly inspect orthodontic equipment for any signs of damage or wear that could pose a choking hazard.
• Stay updated with CPR and first aid training to ensure you are fully prepared to handle emergencies.