Dental emergencies are stressful — but staying calm and acting quickly can save a tooth and ease your pain. Here's what to do, and when to call us.
First, call us
If you're having a dental emergency, call (252) 555-0147 right away. We hold same-day time for urgent care. Go to the nearest emergency room first for uncontrolled bleeding, a possible broken jaw, or swelling that affects your breathing or swallowing.
Knocked-out tooth (avulsion)
Time is critical — ideally re-implant within 30–60 minutes.
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (the white part), never the root.
- If dirty, rinse gently with milk or water for a few seconds — don't scrub or remove attached tissue.
- If you can, place it back in the socket and bite gently on gauze.
- If you can't, keep it moist in milk (or tucked inside the cheek for an adult). Then come straight in.
Broken, chipped or cracked tooth
- Rinse your mouth with warm water and save any pieces.
- Use a cold compress on the cheek to reduce swelling.
- Cover a sharp edge with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your tongue and cheek until we see you.
Severe toothache
- Rinse with warm salt water and gently floss to remove any trapped food.
- A cold compress and over-the-counter pain relief (as directed) can help in the meantime.
- Don't place aspirin directly on the gum — it can burn the tissue.
- Persistent or throbbing pain often signals infection — call us promptly.
Lost filling or crown
- Keep the crown if you have it — we can often re-cement it.
- A bit of temporary dental cement (from a pharmacy) can protect the tooth short-term.
- Avoid chewing on that side and call to get it restored before the tooth shifts or breaks.
Swelling or a dental abscess
Don't wait on swelling
Facial swelling, a small bump on the gum, fever, or a bad taste can signal a serious infection. These need prompt attention. Seek emergency care immediately if swelling spreads to your eye or neck or affects breathing or swallowing.
Soft-tissue injuries (lips, cheeks, tongue)
- Clean the area gently and apply pressure with clean gauze to control bleeding.
- A cold compress eases swelling. If bleeding doesn't stop after 15–20 minutes of pressure, seek emergency care.
Preventing emergencies
Many emergencies are avoidable: wear a mouthguard for sports, don't use your teeth as tools or chew ice, and keep up with regular checkups so small problems are caught before they become painful ones.