Emergency Dentistry

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency involves any condition that requires immediate treatment to halt bleeding, relieve severe pain, save a tooth or treat an infection. Common dental emergencies include sudden toothaches, chipped or cracked teeth and more.

You may have a dental emergency if:

• You experience severe pain or swelling.
• You have a persistent toothache.
• A tooth is loose or knocked out.
• You have facial swelling along with a toothache.
• You suffer from extreme tooth sensitivity.
• You have uncontrollable bleeding from the mouth.
• Your jaw is injured.

What is not a dental emergency?

Not all dental problems are emergencies. If you can manage the issue for a few days without severe pain or risk of further damage, it may not require immediate attention. For example, a small crack or chip in a tooth is an emergency only if it causes pain or you have lost a filling or tooth.

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

In a dental emergency, contact your dentist right away. For severe cases, visit the emergency room. Here are some home remedies to manage pain until you receive professional care:

• Apply a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain.
• Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to alleviate discomfort and prevent infection.
• If a tooth is knocked out, place it in a glass of milk and see your dentist immediately.
• Use diluted hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash to kill bacteria.
• Take over-the-counter pain medication to manage pain.
• Floss gently to relieve gum pressure.

What should I do if I have a toothache?

For a toothache, contact your dentist as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, rinse your mouth with warm water and use dental floss to remove any trapped food particles. Over-the-counter pain medication and cold compresses can help reduce pain and swelling.

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

If a filling or crown breaks, save any pieces and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. You can use dental cement from a pharmacy to temporarily secure a crown, but professional dental treatment is necessary to prevent further damage or infection. Your dentist will replace the filling or crown to restore your oral health.