Got tooth pain and wondering whether or not you’re experiencing a dental emergency? In this article, our team at Dentist Finder provides an overview of some common dental emergencies and explores what to do if they occur:
What Is A Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any type of situation that involves your teeth, gums, or mouth and requires immediate attention.
If you’re not totally sure whether or not you’re experiencing a dental emergency, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and get in touch with a trusted dentist as soon as possible. Leaving a dental emergency untreated can lead to serious complications like permanent tooth loss or the spread of infection.
Common Types Of Dental Emergencies
Many different situations can be considered dental emergencies. Some of the most common are listed below:
Severe Toothache
A severe toothache causes intense pain that may worsen over time, with biting/chewing, or with exposure to heat/cold. If you’re experiencing these types of symptoms, chances are high there’s a serious underlying dental issue that needs to be treated as soon as possible – and emergency dental care is warranted.
Knocked-Out Tooth
It’s no surprise that a knocked-out tooth is considered a dental emergency. If a tooth is completely dislodged from your mouth as a result of an injury or accident, seek professional dental treatment as quickly as you can.
Steps to take for a knocked-out tooth:
- Don’t touch the root of the tooth – only handle it by the crown (the part of the tooth that’s visible in the mouth).
- Rinse the tooth gently in water or milk and return it to its socket in the mouth (if possible) while seeking emergency medical treatment.
- If it’s not possible to return the tooth to its socket, hold it in your cheek or transport it in a clean container filled with milk.
Cracked, Chipped, Or Broken Teeth
A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth should be treated as soon as possible, but it isn’t always considered an outright emergency – though it can be, depending on the extent of damage, the severity of the symptoms and the potential risks involved. Signs that your situation may warrant immediate emergency care include:
- Severe pain
- Bleeding
- Visible damage – especially with sharp or uneven edges
- Swelling or abscess
- Loss of function (chewing, biting, speaking)
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess (a build-up of pus in the gum or near a tooth root) is frequently considered a dental emergency – especially if it’s red, swollen, or causing severe pain. If a dental abscess is accompanied by a fever, this can be a sign of spreading infection, and you should seek emergency medical care immediately.
Lost Or Damaged Fillings/Crowns
A lost or damaged filling or crown is often considered a dental emergency because it can cause pain/sensitivity and expose the underlying tooth structure to damage, decay, or infection. Contact your dentist’s office as soon as possible to determine whether or not your situation requires immediate treatment.
Soft Tissue Injuries
A soft tissue injury involving the lips, tongue, cheeks, gums, or the lining of the mouth may be a dental emergency if it involves:
- Severe swelling or pain
- A deep cut or tear
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Signs of an abscess or infection
What To Do In A Dental Emergency
During a dental emergency, it’s essential to remain calm so that you can accurately assess the situation and make clear decisions:
Call Your Dentist Immediately
Call your dentist to seek advice and schedule an immediate appointment. If you’re unable to make the call yourself (for instance, after a traumatic accident), have someone call for you while you deal with immediate concerns like pain, bleeding, or locating a knocked-out tooth.
Manage Pain & Bleeding
While waiting for an emergency dental appointment, you can try one or more of the following to manage pain and bleeding, depending on your symptoms:
- Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
- Bite down on a clean cloth or gauze to help control bleeding.
- Rinse your mouth with water.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
Finding An Emergency Dentist Near You
When a dental emergency occurs, finding an emergency dental clinic near you is absolutely crucial. At Dentist Finder, we understand this, and we’re here to help connect you with top-rated emergency dentists in your area in record time. Fill out our 3-minute questionnaire today to get started!
