We all hope never to experience a dental emergency, but accidents and unexpected issues can happen anytime. Knowing how to respond in a dental crisis can make all the difference, whether it’s a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken filling. Below are some of the most common dental emergencies, what to do when they occur, and when to seek professional help.
Common Dental Emergencies
1. Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If this happens:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root).
- If needed, clean the tooth in milk or your saliva, but do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue.
- Try to place the tooth back in its socket if possible.
- If that’s not possible, store it in a container of milk or saliva.
- Seek emergency dental care immediately—time is crucial to saving the tooth!
2. Severe Toothache
Infections, cavities, or trauma can cause toothaches. If you experience intense pain:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Floss gently to remove any trapped food that may be aggravating the pain.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief, if needed.
- Avoid applying aspirin directly to the gums—it can cause tissue damage.
- Visit your dentist as soon as possible to assess the cause of the pain.
3. Chipped or Broken Tooth
Whether from biting something hard or an accident, a chipped or broken tooth can be uncomfortable and potentially serious:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- If there’s bleeding, apply gauze to the area.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Save any broken pieces if possible.
- See your dentist promptly for repair options like bonding or crowns.
- Your dentist may need to take an X-ray to check that there is no other damage to the surrounding bone or tooth.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to further damage:
- If you have the crown, keep it safe and bring it to the dentist.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side until you see your dentist.
5. Abscessed Tooth
An abscess is a severe infection that can lead to complications if untreated. Signs include:
- Severe pain
- Swelling
- Pus or a bad taste in the mouth
- Fever
Seek immediate dental care for drainage and treatment—delaying can lead to dangerous health risks.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While emergencies can’t always be avoided, you can reduce your risk by:
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports.
- Avoiding chewing on ice, hard lollies, pens or pencils, etc.
- Maintaining regular dental check-ups.
- Addressing minor dental issues before they become bigger problems.
Final Thoughts
Dental emergencies can be alarming, but knowing how to respond quickly can improve outcomes. Always seek professional dental care when needed, and never ignore pain or symptoms. If you’re unsure, contact your dentist for advice—the sooner, the better!
