What to Do When a Dental Emergency Occurs

The Dental Anesthesia Center is here for you. We understand how painful dental emergencies are and are ready to help.

A dental emergency can occur at the most inopportune time. For instance, you may suffer a dental injury after falling down the stairs or while playing your favorite sport. Either way, knowing what to do in a dental emergency can help minimize the severity of the injury and protect your dental health.

Below are scenarios that qualify as dental emergencies and the steps you should take in each case to prevent further damage.

Types of Dental Emergencies

• Broken Teeth – A broken tooth can result in a painful toothache or infection. If you suffer from a broken tooth, the most appropriate action would be to wash the injured area with warm water and place a cold towel over the surrounding surfaces to prevent further swelling. You should then call your dentist to book an emergency appointment.

• Loss of a Permanent Tooth – After losing a permanent tooth, the best course of action is to place the tooth back in the socket and try to hold it there. Don’t touch the roots to avoid damaging essential root fragments. Also, do not try to push the tooth with sharp or pointed instruments. If your tooth falls out, place it in a cup of fresh milk to preserve its cells and seek immediate medical help.

• Severe Toothache – While some toothaches are usually relatively mild and may even improve without a trip to the dentist, others can turn into dental emergencies. If you have a severe toothache, rinse your mouth with salt water to kill bacteria. Also, try to find a cold compress and press it against your aching tooth. This will help reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.

• Mouth Injury – The majority of mouth injuries can be problematic if not promptly addressed. For instance, you may bleed profusely or injure your jawline when you bite your tongue, lip, or cheek. When in such a situation, visit a dentist immediately for professional oral care.

Tips to Follow for the Best Dental Emergency Outcome

• Remain Calm – Dental emergencies can be devastating and painful. However, it would help if you remained calm. Remaining calm will allow you to evaluate the problem and decide on the best course of action.
• Determine the Extent of Injury – Take time to determine the severity of your dental problem. This will help you pick the best first aid option as you plan to visit the dentist.
• Preserve the Tooth – Avoid mishandling your knocked-out or broken tooth. Instead, store it safely during your trip to the dentist— preferably inside a cup of fresh milk or saline water.
• See a Dentist Immediately – In any dental emergency, your immediate action should be to see a dentist. Where possible, call and book an appointment before you get there. Remember to take a stable position during your trip to the dentist to avoid aggravating your dental injury.

Let Us Take Care of Your Dental Emergency

Do you have a dental emergency and are looking for a dentist you can trust? The Dental Anesthesia Center is here for you. We understand how painful dental emergencies are and are ready to help.