Emergency Dentistry

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency requires immediate treatment to stop bleeding, relieve pain, prevent infection or save a tooth. Common emergencies include:

• Severe pain or swelling
• Persistent toothaches
• Loose or knocked-out teeth
• Swelling in the face or cheeks accompanied by a toothache
• Extreme tooth sensitivity or bleeding that won’t stop
• Jaw injuries

What is not a dental emergency?

Not all dental problems require immediate attention. Minor chips or cracks in a tooth are not emergencies unless they cause significant pain or the tooth is at risk. If the issue can be managed at home for a few days, it may not require urgent care.

What’s the best way to handle a dental emergency?

For any dental emergency, call your dentist immediately. For severe issues, visit the emergency room. While waiting for professional care, you can:

• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Rinse with warm salt water to alleviate discomfort.
• Place a knocked-out tooth in a glass of milk until you can see your dentist.
• Use over-the-counter pain medication and floss to relieve pressure.

What should I do if I have a toothache?

Call your dentist promptly to address the root cause of a toothache. In the meantime, rinse with warm water, use floss to remove debris and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relief can help manage discomfort until your appointment.

What should I do if my dental filling or crown breaks?

Save any broken pieces of a filling or crown and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can secure a loose crown until you see your dentist for a permanent solution. Prompt professional care will restore your tooth and prevent further complications.