
Dental emergencies can strike when you least expect them. Knowing how to respond can save your smile and prevent further damage. Here are the top five dental emergencies and quick actions you can take before visiting a dentist.
1. Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is knocked out, time is critical.
What to Do:
- Hold the tooth by the crown (the part that shows above the gums), not the root.
- Rinse it gently with water, but don’t scrub or remove tissue fragments.
- If possible, place the tooth back into its socket and hold it in place.
- If that’s not possible, store it in milk or a tooth preservation kit. Avoid letting it dry out.
- See a dentist immediately—teeth have the best chance of being saved within an hour.
2. Severe Toothache
A toothache can signal anything from a cavity to an infection.
What to Do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce swelling.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers but avoid aspirin directly on the tooth, as it can burn the gum tissue.
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek if there’s swelling.
- Schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible.
3. Broken or Chipped Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth can cause pain and expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth.
What to Do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Save any pieces of the tooth and bring them to your dentist.
- Apply gauze if there’s bleeding.
- Use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Avoid biting down on the affected side until you see a dentist.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to further damage.
What to Do:
- Keep the crown or filling and bring it with you to the dentist.
- Apply dental cement (available at pharmacies) or sugar-free gum to protect the tooth temporarily.
- Avoid eating on the affected side until it’s repaired.
5. Abscess or Swelling
An abscess is a serious infection that can spread if untreated. Signs include a swollen face, severe pain, or a pimple-like bump on the gums.
What to Do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Do not ignore it—call your dentist immediately. Infections can spread to other parts of your body and become life-threatening.
Don’t Delay Dental Emergencies
Acting quickly during a dental emergency can make all the difference. At our multi-award-winning dental clinic, we’re here to provide fast, expert care when you need it most.
Facing a dental emergency? Call us now for immediate assistance, or book an appointment online. Your smile’s safety is our priority!