Dental emergencies can strike at any moment, and knowing how to respond can mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Whether it's a knocked-out tooth, a cracked tooth, or a sudden, unbearable toothache, immediate and appropriate action is crucial. Below are guidelines on how to handle common dental emergencies until you can get professional help.

A Knocked-Out Tooth

If you've had a tooth completely knocked out, time is of the essence. Recover the tooth by the crown (the part that is visible when in place in the mouth), avoiding touching the root. Rinse the tooth gently with water if it's dirty, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, try to reinsert it in the socket. If that's not feasible, place the tooth in a cup of milk or a saltwater solution. The goal is to keep the tooth moist at all times. Contact your dentist immediately, as getting to a dentist within 30 minutes can make the difference in saving the tooth.

A Dislodged Tooth

For a tooth that's been pushed out of position, attempt to reposition it to its normal alignment using very light finger pressure, but don't force it. Bite down to keep the tooth from moving and see a dentist right away.

Cracked or Chipped Tooth

If you've chipped or cracked a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water immediately to clean the area. Apply a cold compress to the face to keep any swelling down. If you can find the chipped piece, bring it with you to the dentist. For a serious crack, visit the dentist as soon as possible for assessment. In the meantime, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and stick to soft foods.

Toothache

Begin by cleaning around the sore tooth meticulously. Using warm water, rinse the mouth to displace any food trapped between teeth. If swelling is present, place a cold compress to the outside of the cheek. Do not put painkillers directly against the gums near the aching tooth, as it may burn the gum tissue. A toothache is a sign that something is wrong that will not resolve by itself, so contact your dentist as soon as you can.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Injuries to the tongue, cheeks, gums, and lips can result in bleeding. Rinse your mouth with a mild salt-water solution and use a moistened piece of gauze or tea bag to apply pressure to the bleeding site. Hold in place for 15 to 20 minutes. To both control bleeding and relieve pain, hold a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek for 5 to 10 minutes. If the bleeding doesn't stop, see a dentist immediately or go to a hospital emergency room.

Schedule a Visit to the Dentist

The most important thing to remember in a dental emergency is not to panic. Take immediate action where possible and contact your dentist promptly. Always keep a dental emergency kit on hand, which should include your dentist’s contact information, saline solution, a small container with a lid, gauze, and a cold pack. If you have a dental emergency, call us immediately.