Dental emergencies can come suddenly and unexpectedly. Knowing how to handle these situations can make a big difference from sudden tooth pain to more serious injuries. Here’s what to do when common dental mishaps happen and how to get emergency dental care:
Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
A knocked-out tooth can be saved in some situations, but acting quickly may increase your chances of saving it. Don’t waste valuable time when you need emergency dental care. Here’s what to do when you get a tooth knocked out:
- Retrieve the Tooth Carefully: Hold the tooth by its crown (the part you chew with), not the root. Avoid touching the root to prevent damage.
- Keep the Tooth Moist: If possible, place the tooth back into its socket without forcing it. If that’s not an option, store it in a container of milk or a saline solution. Water can damage the tooth cells, so it’s not ideal for storage.
- Get to a Dentist Immediately: Time is critical. Dental professionals typically recommend seeking care within 30 minutes for a better chance of saving the tooth.
Severe Toothache
While waiting for professional care for a severe toothacghe, there are things you can do. Rinse your mouth using warm, salty water to clean the area and soothe discomfort. Non-prescription medications can help reduce pain temporarily. Avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums as it can burn the tissue.
Cracked or Chipped Teeth
A cracked or chipped tooth might not always hurt, but it can still pose risks to your oral health. Just like with a toothache, rinse with warm, salty water to clean the area. If the injury has caused bleeding, gently apply gauze to the area until it stops. Even if the crack appears minor, see a dentist. Small cracks can worsen over time or expose the tooth to infection.
Bleeding That Won’t Stop
Bleeding gums or oral wounds can happen during dental procedures, injuries, or other incidents. While minor bleeding is not uncommon, persistent bleeding requires immediate attention. Use sterile gauze or a clean cloth to press firmly on the bleeding area. If the bleeding doesn’t stop within 20 minutes or worsens, contact a dentist or visit an emergency clinic. Ongoing bleeding could signal a more serious issue. Don’t wait too long to get help.
Oral Abscesses
An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. These can happen at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gums. Abscessed can be identified by persistent pain in the affected area. Swelling in the face, cheek, or jaw, or bad taste in your mouth can indicate there is an abscess. Abscesses don’t go away on their own and require dental treatment to prevent complications.
When to Seek Immediate Help
While minor dental issues can sometimes wait for a regular appointment, the situations above often need urgent care. Seek help immediately if you have severe pain that affects your ability to eat, sleep, or function normally. Seek a professional if you have signs of infection, like fever or swelling, or injuries that risk permanent damage, like a knocked-out or broken tooth.
Seek Emergency Dental Care
Dental mishaps happen, but knowing how to respond can make a big difference in your outcome. Whether it’s a cracked tooth, severe pain, or a knocked-out tooth, staying calm and acting quickly is the key to minimizing damage and getting the care you need. If you find yourself faced with a dental emergency, book an appointment with your dentist.
