What Counts as a Dental Emergency, and How Should You Handle It?
Toothache
Dull or throbbing toothaches can signal underlying issues like decay or infection. Begin by rinsing your mouth with warm water and gently flossing to dislodge any debris. Over-the-counter pain relief can provide temporary relief until you consult your dentist.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, handle it delicately by the crown and rinse it with water. If feasible, attempt to reinsert it into the socket or store it in milk or saliva until you reach your dentist’s office.
Broken or Fractured Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to minimize swelling. Preserve any broken fragments and seek dental attention promptly.
Lost Dental Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown becomes dislodged, gently clean the area and use dental cement or sugar-free gum as a temporary fix. Schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Abscess
Rinse your mouth with salt water to alleviate discomfort. See your dentist promptly for assessment and potential antibiotic treatment.
Broken Orthodontic Appliances
Use orthodontic wax or cotton to cover sharp edges. Contact your orthodontist for guidance.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Apply pressure with clean gauze to control bleeding from cuts or tears in the mouth. Seek medical attention if the injury is severe.
Partially Dislodged Tooth (Luxation)
Gently guide the tooth back into place and stabilize it with a cloth or gauze until you can visit your dentist.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Rinse with warm salt water and use over-the-counter pain relief until you can see your dentist for further evaluation.
Dental Trauma in Children
Stay calm, reassure the child, and seek immediate dental care to prevent long-term damage.
Broken Dentures
Avoid DIY repairs and contact your dentist for professional assistance.
Lost Dental Bridge
Save any loose components and arrange for prompt evaluation and repair by your dentist.
Severe Jaw Pain
Apply a cold compress and seek professional diagnosis and treatment to address underlying issues.
Broken Jaw
Immobilize the jaw and seek immediate medical attention at an urgent care facility.
Object Lodged Between Teeth
Use dental floss or an interdental brush to remove the object gently. If unsuccessful, seek dental assistance.
Severe Gum Bleeding
Rinse with warm salt water and apply pressure to control bleeding before seeing your dentist.
Dental Avulsion (Complete Tooth Loss)
Handle the tooth carefully and seek emergency dental care for possible reimplantation.
Severe Tooth Sensitivity
Avoid extremes in temperature and acidic foods until you can see your dentist for evaluation.
Loose Permanent Tooth
Apply gentle pressure to stabilize the tooth and seek immediate dental care.
Facial Swelling
Apply a cold compress and seek prompt dental or medical attention for diagnosis and treatment.
