A dental emergency includes situations such as severe tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, broken or chipped teeth, lost fillings or crowns, and infections. If you are experiencing any of these issues or any other urgent dental problem, it is important to seek immediate care.

If you knock out a tooth, handle it by the crown (the top part), not the root. Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue. Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket if possible, or keep it in a container of milk or saliva. Seek emergency dental care immediately.

To relieve severe tooth pain before your appointment, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain relievers (avoid aspirin if there’s bleeding), and apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.

If you lose a filling or crown, try to keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. You can temporarily place dental cement or even sugarless gum in the cavity for protection. Contact our office for an emergency appointment to replace the filling or crown.

Prevent dental emergencies by maintaining good oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard during sports, avoiding hard foods and objects that can crack teeth, and attending regular dental check-ups. Addressing dental issues early can also prevent them from becoming emergencies.