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Dental emergencies can occur without warning, leaving many unsure of how to respond. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or an infection, knowing how to handle these situations is essential for preventing further complications. Seeking the right treatment from an emergency dentist ensures that the problem is addressed quickly and effectively.

This guide covers common dental emergencies and what steps you should take when they happen.

Toothaches

Toothaches are one of the most common dental issues people experience. They can be caused by cavities, infections, cracked teeth, or gum disease. If the pain is severe or persists for more than a day or two, it’s important to contact an emergency dentist.

What to Do:

  • Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
  • Use dental floss to remove any debris that may be lodged between the teeth.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers can be taken to manage discomfort, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums as this can cause irritation.
  • Contact your dentist as soon as possible for an examination and treatment.

Ignoring a toothache can lead to more serious problems, such as infections that may spread to other areas.

Broken or Chipped Teeth

A broken or chipped tooth can happen due to accidents, biting on something hard, or sports injuries. While a broken tooth can cause pain, even if there is no immediate discomfort, it is important to seek treatment promptly to prevent further damage.

What to Do:

  • Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
  • If there is bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area and hold it in place until the bleeding stops.
  • Use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth or cheek to reduce swelling.
  • If you can find the broken piece of the tooth, store it in milk and take it to your dentist.
  • Visit your emergency dentist to have the tooth repaired or treated.

Small chips might only need smoothing or bonding, while larger breaks may require a crown or even a root canal if the tooth is damaged deeply.

Knocked-Out Tooth

Losing a tooth due to trauma can be alarming, but if handled quickly, it’s possible to save the tooth. Acting within the first 30 minutes gives the best chance of successful reimplantation.

What to Do:

  • Handle the tooth by the crown (the top part), not the root.
  • Rinse the tooth gently with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub it.
  • If possible, place the tooth back in its socket and hold it there by biting down gently on gauze or a soft cloth.
  • If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk or a saline solution and bring it to your dentist immediately.
  • Visit your dentist as quickly as possible for evaluation and treatment.

A knocked-out tooth requires urgent care, and the sooner you reach your dentist, the higher the chances of saving the tooth.

Lost Filling or Crown

Fillings and crowns can become loose or fall out due to decay under the tooth or wear and tear. When this happens, the tooth becomes vulnerable to damage and infection, so it’s important to act quickly.

What to Do:

  • If a crown comes off, clean it and store it in a safe place. You can try temporarily placing it back on the tooth using dental cement, which can be found at most pharmacies.
  • Avoid chewing on the side of the mouth with the lost filling or crown.
  • Contact your emergency dentist to have the filling or crown replaced.

A lost filling or crown exposes the tooth and can lead to further decay or pain if not addressed promptly.

Abscess

An abscess is a serious infection that occurs around the root of a tooth or in the space between the teeth and gums. Left untreated, abscesses can spread to other parts of the body and lead to serious health issues.

What to Do:

  • Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution several times a day to help draw out the infection and reduce discomfort.
  • Contact your emergency dentist immediately. An abscess is a dental emergency that needs professional treatment as soon as possible.
  • Do not attempt to drain the abscess yourself, as this can lead to further complications.

Abscesses require immediate treatment to prevent the infection from spreading and to preserve the affected tooth and surrounding tissues.

Object Stuck Between Teeth

Sometimes, food particles or other objects can get lodged between the teeth, causing pain and discomfort. While this isn’t always a severe emergency, it can become one if left untreated.

What to Do:

  • Try to gently remove the object with dental floss. Do not use sharp objects like pins or needles, as these can damage the gums or enamel.
  • If flossing doesn’t work, contact your dentist for help.

Objects stuck between the teeth can lead to gum irritation or infections if not dealt with properly.

When to Visit Dr. Molly Rodgers Dental

Knowing when to visit an emergency dentist is key to preventing long-term damage and pain. If you experience any of the above situations, it’s important to contact your dentist quickly to get the appropriate treatment.

At Dr. Molly Rodgers Dental in Edmonton, we provide emergency dental services for toothaches, broken teeth, abscesses, and more. Our team is equipped to handle urgent dental issues, offering quick relief and effective treatment to prevent further complications.

If you are facing a dental emergency, don’t wait. Contact Dr. Molly Rodgers Dental in Edmonton for prompt care that targets the root of the problem. With years of experience and a commitment to patient care, we can help you restore your dental health and relieve your pain.

Posted in Dental Emergencies, Dental News & Advice