Dental Emergencies: What to Do in a Dental Crisis

Dental emergencies can strike at any moment, often when you least expect them. A sudden and sharp toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a severe gum infection can disrupt your life and cause significant pain and anxiety. Knowing how to handle these situations promptly and effectively is crucial for preserving your oral health and minimizing long-term damage. 

Understanding Dental Emergencies

A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate attention from a dentist to alleviate severe pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth. Delaying treatment can lead to complications, including infection, tooth loss, and more extensive and costly procedures. “Every year in the U.S.,” according to the American Dental Association (ADA), “there are an estimated 2 million visits to hospital emergency departments (EDs) for dental pain. Many of these visits can be referred to local dentists and clinics, saving our health care system an estimated $1.7 billion while providing people with the ongoing oral care they need.” Recognizing the signs of a dental emergency is the first step toward getting the necessary care.  

Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them

Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)

This is one of the most critical dental emergencies. Taking prompt action can significantly increase the chances of saving the tooth. As the Mayo Clinic explains, “It’s critical to replant the tooth right away or as quickly as possible. If replanting the tooth doesn’t happen quickly after the tooth is knocked out and properly handled, it’s not likely to be a success.” Here are some steps for handling the situation.

• Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown (the part you chew with), avoiding touching the root.
• If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline solution. Do not scrub or use soap.
• Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket. If this isn’t possible, place the tooth in a container of milk, saline solution, or your own saliva.
• Seek immediate dental care within 30 minutes to an hour. The sooner you see a dentist, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

Dislodged (Extruded) Tooth

A dislodged tooth is one that has been pushed out of its normal position but is still partially in the socket. What to do?

• Gently try to reposition the tooth back into its original alignment. Do not force it.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling.
• See a dentist as soon as possible.

Fractured or Cracked Tooth

A cracked or fractured tooth can cause severe pain and sensitivity. While these terms are often used interchangeably, it’s important to note that a fractured tooth may be a more severe crack that extends deeper, potentially reaching the root. Here are some steps to follow. 

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.  
• See a dentist immediately.

Severe Toothache

A severe toothache is more than discomfort; it can indicate a serious underlying issue, such as an infection or abscess. Like all pain we experience, a toothache is a warning sign of a problem that needs to be addressed immediately. 

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Gently floss to remove any food particles trapped between your teeth.
• Do not place aspirin or pain relievers directly on the gums or affected area.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
• See a dentist as soon as possible, especially if the pain is accompanied by swelling, fever, or a foul taste in your mouth.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscess is a severe infection that forms a pocket of pus around the tooth root. This is a n urgent situation that you should not ignore or postpone.

• Rinse your mouth with a mild salt water solution.
• Do not attempt to drain the abscess yourself.
• See a dentist immediately. An abscess requires prompt treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.

Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown can expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth. What to do?

• If possible, temporarily replace the crown or filling with dental wax or sugarless gum.
• Avoid chewing on the affected side.
• See a dentist as soon as possible to have the filling or crown replaced.

Soft Tissue Injuries (Cuts or Tears to the Gums, Lips, or Cheeks):

Injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth can cause bleeding and pain.

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Apply gentle pressure to the bleeding area with a clean gauze or cloth.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling.
• If the bleeding is severe or doesn’t stop, go to the emergency room or see a dentist immediately.

When to Seek Immediate Care for Dental Emergencies

• Severe, persistent pain
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Knocked-out or dislodged teeth
• Significant swelling
• Signs of infection (fever, foul taste, pus)
• Injuries to the face or mouth that affect breathing or swallowing

Preventing Dental Emergencies

While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, you can take steps to minimize your risk.

• Practice good oral hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss daily, and use an antiseptic mouthwash.
• Wear a mouthguard: If you participate in sports or activities that could result in facial injuries, wear a custom-fitted mouthguard.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects: Don’t chew on ice, hard candies, or other objects that can damage your teeth.
• Schedule regular dental checkups: Regular dental visits allow your dentist to identify and address potential problems before they become emergencies.
• Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet supports overall oral health.

The Importance of Prompt Treatment for Dental Emergencies

Delaying treatment for a dental emergency can lead to serious consequences.

• Infection: Untreated infections can spread to other parts of the body.
• Tooth loss: Prompt treatment can often save a damaged or knocked-out tooth.
• Increased pain and discomfort: Delaying treatment can worsen pain and prolong recovery.
• More extensive and costly procedures: Addressing problems early can prevent the need for more complex and expensive treatments.

Blende Dental Group: Experts in Dental Emergencies

At Blende Dental Group, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful and overwhelming. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing prompt and compassionate care to alleviate your pain and restore your oral health. We are equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies, ensuring you receive the necessary treatment when you need it most.

The Blende Dental Group is always on-call to help, every hour of every day. You can avoid an unnecessary trip to a hospital emergency room by calling us first. Our team of dental professionals have decades of combined experience. If you are having dental emergencies in San Francisco or New York, call us for immediate assistance at 800-395-1152. And if you can’t come to us, we can come to you.

Being prepared for dental emergencies can make a significant difference in preserving your oral health and minimizing discomfort. By understanding how to handle common dental emergencies and knowing when to seek professional help, you can take control of your dental health and ensure a swift recovery. Remember, prompt treatment is essential for the best possible outcome. Don’t hesitate to contact the Blende Dental Group for immediate care in a dental crisis.