Handling Dental Emergencies: What to Do When a Dental Crisis Strikes

Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly and can be distressing, causing pain and discomfort. Knowing how to identify dental emergencies and taking appropriate steps for immediate relief can make a significant difference in the outcome and the preservation of oral health. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover common dental emergencies, provide essential first-aid measures, and guide you on when to seek professional dental help.

Severe Toothache

Intense and persistent tooth pain, often indicating an underlying issue such as tooth decay or infection.

Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area around the affected tooth.
Use dental floss to gently remove any food particles that may be trapped between teeth.
Avoid placing aspirin or any other painkiller directly on the gums, as it can burn the gum tissue.
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek if there is swelling.

Knocked-Out Tooth

A tooth completely dislodged from its socket, often due to an injury or accident.

Handle the tooth by the crown (chewing surface), avoiding touching the root.
Rinse the tooth gently with water to clean it, but do not scrub or remove any tissue fragments.
Try to reinsert the tooth back into its socket if possible, or place it in a container with milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation kit.
Seek emergency dental care immediately, as the chances of saving a knocked-out tooth decrease with time.

Chipped or Fractured Tooth

A portion of the tooth has broken off, exposing the sensitive inner layers.

Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
If there’s bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the affected area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops.
Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
Save any broken tooth fragments and seek emergency dental care as soon as possible.

Lost Filling or Crown

A dental restoration, such as a filling or crown, has fallen out or become loose.

If a filling or crown comes out, keep it safe and avoid chewing on the affected tooth.
Use dental cement or sugarless gum to temporarily cover the exposed area.
Schedule an emergency dental appointment to have the filling or crown replaced.

Abscess

A painful swelling in the gum or around a tooth, typically caused by a bacterial infection.

An abscess is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate attention.
Rinse your mouth with mild saltwater several times a day to help reduce swelling and draw out the pus.
Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible to address the infection and prevent further complications.

Are you facing a dental emergency?

Seek immediate dental care to address the infection and prevent further complications. While first-aid measures can offer temporary relief, it is essential to get professional help for all dental emergencies. If you experience any of the following issues, contact your dentist or visit an emergency dental clinic:

Severe or persistent tooth pain
A knocked-out tooth
A chipped or fractured tooth with nerve exposure
A lost dental restoration (filling or crown)
Swelling or a painful abscess

Remember, quick and appropriate action during dental emergencies is crucial for preserving your oral health and preventing further complications. At Crown Dental Inglewood, we are here to assist you during dental emergencies and provide comprehensive dental care for all your needs. If you encounter a dental emergency, call us immediately at (310) 672-0129. Let our team handle the situation with care and professionalism, ensuring the best possible outcome for your dental health.