Top 5 Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect it, often causing pain, panic, and confusion. Whether it's a knocked-out tooth or a severe toothache, knowing how to react in these situations can make all the difference in saving your smile and preventing further damage. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 5 most common dental emergencies and provide you with the necessary steps to manage them until you can get professional care.

Knocked-Out Tooth

One of the most frightening dental emergencies is when a tooth is knocked out, often due to an accident or sports injury. A knocked-out tooth, also called an avulsed tooth, needs prompt attention to increase the chances of saving it. The first thing you should do is handle the tooth carefully by the crown (the part that’s visible in the mouth), avoiding touching the roots.

If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket, ensuring it faces the right way. If you can't do this, place the tooth in a container with milk or saline solution. Avoid storing the tooth in water, as it can damage the root cells. Time is of the essence in these situations, so contact your dentist immediately, as you’ll likely need an emergency visit to re-implant the tooth.

Severe Toothache

A toothache can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, often causing difficulty eating, drinking, or even speaking. When the pain becomes unbearable, it’s typically due to an infection or inflammation in the tooth’s pulp. For temporary relief, you can rinse your mouth with warm salt water or apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek.

Never put aspirin or any painkiller directly on the affected tooth, as this can cause further irritation. While these steps might alleviate some pain, it’s important to schedule a visit with your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment. In some cases, a root canal may be required to remove the infection and save the tooth.

Broken or Cracked Tooth

Accidents happen, and teeth sometimes break or crack under pressure. Whether it’s from biting into something hard or a fall, a broken tooth can expose sensitive nerves and cause intense pain. If you notice a crack or break in your tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If there’s swelling, apply a cold compress to your face to reduce it.

While you wait to see your dentist, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and keep the area clean. Depending on the severity of the break, your dentist might recommend bonding, a crown, or even a root canal if the pulp is damaged.

Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown may not seem like an immediate emergency, but it can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Without the filling or crown in place, the tooth becomes more vulnerable to decay and infection. In the meantime, try to keep the area clean and avoid chewing on the tooth. You can temporarily use dental cement or wax as a placeholder until you can see your dentist for a replacement.

In some cases, the tooth may be sensitive, so sticking to soft foods and avoiding extremely hot or cold items can reduce discomfort. This is an easy fix for your dentist, so don’t delay your visit for too long.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth occurs when a bacterial infection in the tooth’s pulp spreads to the surrounding tissues. This type of dental emergency often presents itself with a severe, throbbing pain, swelling, and sometimes a fever. If you suspect you have an abscessed tooth, it’s essential to seek immediate dental care. An untreated abscess can lead to more serious health problems, including the spread of infection to other areas of the body.

In the meantime, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce swelling and prevent further infection. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection, but a root canal or tooth extraction is often necessary to fully resolve the issue.

Dental emergencies can be alarming, but staying calm and following these basic steps can help minimize damage and pain. If you experience any of the issues mentioned above, it's essential to reach out to a professional for advice and care as soon as possible. An Edmonton dentist can provide the appropriate treatment, ensuring that your dental health is restored with minimal complications. Remember, time is crucial when dealing with dental emergencies, so don't wait too long before seeking help.