A dental emergency can happen at any time, often without warning. Whether it's a sudden, severe toothache or an injury from an accident, knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in the outcome. Quick and correct action can alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and even save a tooth.
As dental professionals, we understand that these situations can be stressful and frightening. Our goal is to provide you with clear, practical guidance, enabling you to handle these common emergencies with confidence until you can receive professional care.
It is essential to distinguish between a standard dental issue and an actual emergency. An emergency typically involves severe pain, bleeding that won't stop, a knocked-out tooth, or signs of a severe infection like swelling in the face or jaw. These situations require immediate attention. For any urgent dental needs, our practice provides dedicated emergency dentistry services to address your concerns promptly. This guide will walk you through the five most common dental emergencies we see and provide step-by-step instructions on what to do.
1. Severe Toothache
A persistent, throbbing toothache is one of the most common reasons patients seek emergency dental care. This type of pain is more than just minor sensitivity; it's a signal from your body that something is wrong. The cause is often deep decay that has reached the tooth's nerve, a developing abscess, or an impaction. Ignoring a severe toothache can lead to a more serious infection that may spread to other parts of your body.
If you are experiencing intense tooth pain, the first step is to rinse your mouth with warm salt water gently. This step can help clean the area and reduce inflammation. You can also carefully use dental floss to remove any food particles that might be lodged between your teeth and causing pressure. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help numb the area and reduce swelling.
While over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief, they are not a long-term solution. It is crucial to contact us immediately to diagnose the underlying cause and receive the proper treatment.
2. Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Tooth
Accidents during sports, a fall, or other facial trauma can sometimes result in a tooth being completely knocked out of its socket. This is a time-sensitive dental emergency, but with the right actions, the tooth can often replant successfully. The most critical factor is to act quickly and handle the tooth properly to protect the delicate root surface.
If you or a family member knocks out a tooth, pick it up by the crown (the chewing surface) rather than the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or water for a few seconds; do not scrub it or use any soap. The best course of action is to try to reinsert the tooth back into its socket as soon as possible.
Have the person bite down on a clean cloth or gauze to hold it in place. If you cannot reinsert it, place the tooth in a small container of milk or a tooth preservation product. If neither is available, placing it between the cheek and gum is another option, but only if the person is old enough to prevent swallowing it. Contact our office immediately, as the chances of saving the tooth are highest within the first hour.
3. Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth
A chipped or broken tooth can range from a minor cosmetic issue to a severe structural problem. A small chip may not cause pain, but a larger fracture can expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, leading to pain and an increased risk of infection. Causes can include biting down on something hard, trauma to the face, or even weakening of the tooth from extensive decay or large fillings.
For a chipped or broken tooth, start by rinsing your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a piece of gauze for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Applying a cold compress to the face near the injured tooth can help manage swelling and alleviate pain. If you can find the broken piece of the tooth, save it and bring it with you to our office. Avoid chewing on the damaged tooth and schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Even if there is no pain, the tooth is weakened and susceptible to further damage or decay.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Dental fillings and crowns are used to restore the function and integrity of a damaged tooth. Over time, they can become loose or fall out entirely due to chewing forces, new decay underneath, or failure of the dental cement. When a restoration is lost, the underlying tooth structure is exposed and vulnerable. This issue can cause sensitivity to temperature and pressure, and the tooth itself may be weak and prone to fracture.
If you lose a filling or crown, it is essential to see a dentist promptly. If you have the crown, you can attempt to temporarily place it back on the tooth using dental cement or even toothpaste as a short-term adhesive, but do not use super glue. This step will help protect the exposed tooth surface. If you have lost a filling, you can use sugar-free gum to cover the cavity temporarily.
Whether you can temporarily secure the restoration or not, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and contact us for an appointment. We will need to assess the tooth to determine if the crown can be re-cemented or if a new restoration is required.
5. Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms around the root of a tooth or in the gums as a result of a bacterial infection. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. An abscess can cause a severe, persistent, and throbbing toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold, fever, facial swelling, and a foul taste in the mouth. If the abscess ruptures, you may experience sudden relief from pain; however, the infection remains present.
If you suspect you have an abscess, you must contact a dentist immediately. An untreated abscess can lead to the infection spreading to your jaw, surrounding tissues, and even other parts of your body.
While you wait for your appointment, you can rinse your mouth with a mild salt water solution several times a day to help draw the pus to the surface and relieve pain. However, this is only a temporary measure for comfort. An abscess will not heal on its own and requires professional treatment, which may involve draining the abscess, performing a root canal, or in some cases, extracting the tooth.
We Are Here to Help
Dental emergencies can be alarming, but being prepared can help you navigate the situation calmly and effectively. Keeping our contact information readily available is a simple but vital step. Prompt action and professional care are key to relieving pain, preventing complications, and preserving your oral health. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are committed to providing swift and compassionate care when you need it most.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dentistry
What should I do if my child knocks out a baby tooth?
If a child knocks out a baby tooth, you should not try to reinsert it. Attempting to put a baby tooth back in its socket can damage the developing permanent tooth underneath. Instead, have your child rinse their mouth with water, and you can apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Contact our office to ensure there is no other damage to the jaw or surrounding teeth.
Is a painful, bleeding gum line a dental emergency?
While minor gum bleeding can occur from vigorous brushing or flossing, persistent bleeding accompanied by pain and swelling can be a sign of advanced gum disease or another serious issue. If your gums are bleeding excessively and you are in significant pain, it is considered a dental emergency. You should rinse with salt water and contact our office for an evaluation to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
At Jacobs and Thatcher Dentistry, we have proudly served the Sun City Center community for over six decades, combining decades of experience with modern dental technology. As the oldest and one of the most advanced practices in the region, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for our patients. If you are experiencing a dental emergency or wish to schedule a routine visit, please contact us today.