Dental emergencies can happen to anyone, and they always seem to strike at the worst possible time. Whether it is a sudden toothache in the middle of the night or a knocked out tooth during a weekend game, it’s normal to feel scared and unsure of what to do.
But knowing what to do in those first few minutes can make a huge difference. It can relieve your pain, prevent more damage, and could even save your tooth. The most important thing is to stay as calm as you can. Take a deep breath, you can handle this. This guide will walk you through the steps for the most common dental emergencies.
First Things First: Is It a Real Emergency?
Not every dental problem needs a trip to the dentist right this second. But some issues absolutely do. You should seek immediate care if you’re having:
- Severe pain that doesn’t go away
- Bleeding from your mouth that won’t stop
- A tooth that has been knocked completely out
- A loose tooth (for an adult, baby teeth are supposed to get loose)
- Swelling in your gums, face, or neck
- A major injury to your mouth or jaw
If you are dealing with any of these, it’s time to call your dentist right away.
What to Do in Specific Emergencies
A Knocked Out Tooth
This is a time sensitive situation, but don’t freak out. Your dentist can save a permanent tooth if you act quickly.
- Find the tooth and pick it up by the top part; the crown that you see when you smile. Try not to touch the root.
- If the tooth is dirty, give it a very gentle rinse with water. Don’t scrub it or use any soap.
- The best place for the tooth is back in its socket. If you feel comfortable, try to gently place it back in, making sure it’s facing the right way.
- If you can’t put it back, you need to keep it moist. Place it in a container of milk, a special tooth preservation solution from the pharmacy, or even in your mouth next to your cheek. Don’t let it dry out.
- Call your dentist and get there as fast as you can. The sooner you see a professional, the better the chance of saving your tooth.
A Chipped or Broken Tooth
Even a small chip can feel like a big deal. First, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If you can find the broken piece, bring it with you to the dentist.
Use a cold compress (like an ice pack wrapped in a cloth) on the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes to reduce any swelling. If the broken edge is sharp, you can cover it with a piece of sugarless gum or dental wax from the pharmacy to protect your tongue and cheeks.
A Really Bad Toothache
A severe toothache is your mouth’s way of sending a major distress signal. First, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help soothe it and clean out any debris.
Gently floss around the aching tooth. Sometimes, the pain is actually caused by a piece of food that is stuck. You can take an over the counter pain reliever if you need to, but always follow the directions on the label.
Never put a painkiller like aspirin directly on your gum or tooth. This can burn your tissue and make things much worse.
A Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth feeling sensitive and vulnerable. If you still have the crown, bring it with you to your appointment.
You can find temporary dental cement at most drugstores to cover the exposed area until you can see your dentist. This will protect the tooth from sensitivity and damage. Try to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While you can’t prevent every accident, you can lower your risk. Here are some tips to follow:
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports.
- Don’t use your teeth as tools to open packages or crack nuts.
- Avoid chewing on hard things like ice, hard nuts, or hard candy.
- Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings to catch small problems before they turn into big ones.
When to Go to the Emergency Room
You should head to the nearest emergency room if your dental emergency comes with:
- A serious injury to your jaw or face
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
The hospital can help with these immediate, life threatening issues. You’ll still need to see your dentist for the actual dental repair as soon as possible after.
Your Emergency Dental Team in Durham, NC
At Oak Grove Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we know that emergencies do not wait for a convenient time. That’s why we’re here for you when you need us most. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please don’t hesitate to call us. We’ll do everything we can to see you quickly, relieve your pain, and repair any damage.
Remember, time is critical in a dental emergency. Don’t wait and hope it gets better on its own. Call our Durham, NC office right away at 919-899-4467. For non-emergencies, request an appointment online anytime and we’ll get back to you shortly.