How to Handle Common Dental Emergencies: What to Do Before You See the Dentist

Dental emergencies can strike at any time, often catching us off guard and leaving us in a state of panic. Whether it's a sudden toothache, a chipped tooth, or a knocked-out tooth, knowing how to handle these situations until you can see your dentist is crucial.

Acting quickly and effectively can prevent further damage and alleviate pain until you receive professional care. In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the most common dental emergencies and provide you with actionable steps to take when they occur, ensuring you're prepared for the unexpected.

Handling a Sudden Toothache

A toothache can be more than just a minor annoyance; it can be a sign of a serious dental issue like a deep cavity or an infected tooth. If you find yourself with a sudden toothache, here's what you can do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
• Use dental floss to remove any food particles lodged between your teeth.
• Avoid placing aspirin directly on the aching tooth or gums, as it can cause tissue damage.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Remember, while these steps can provide temporary relief, it's essential to see a dentist as soon as possible to address the root cause of the pain.

What to Do with a Chipped or Broken Tooth

A chipped or broken tooth can be alarming, but taking swift action can help preserve your tooth. Here's how to manage this dental emergency:

• Save any pieces of the tooth, if possible, and rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Apply gauze to any bleeding area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops.
• Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth, cheek, or lip near the broken tooth to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

Contact your dentist immediately to determine the best course of action. Depending on the severity, your dentist may recommend bonding, a crown, or other restorative options.

Dealing with a Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies, but quick thinking can save your tooth. Follow these steps:

• Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top), not the root, to avoid damaging it.
• If dirty, rinse it gently with water. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments.
• Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket if possible, holding it in place with a clean cloth or gauze.
• If reinsertion isn't possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or a tooth preservation product such as Save-A-Tooth.

Time is of the essence. See your dentist within 30 minutes to increase the chances of saving the tooth.

Addressing a Lost Filling or Crown

Losing a filling or crown can be uncomfortable, but there are steps you can take to protect your tooth until you see the dentist:

• Keep the area clean by rinsing with warm water.
• Apply a small amount of temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) to temporarily fill the gap or hold the crown in place.
• Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the lost filling or crown.

Schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly to have the filling or crown replaced and prevent further damage to your tooth.

Contact Buffalo Square Dental in Everett, WA

Don't let dental emergencies catch you off guard. At Buffalo Square Dental, Dr. Aman Manji and our dedicated team are here to provide you with prompt and professional care when you need it most. If you're experiencing a dental emergency in Everett, WA, don't hesitate to reach out to us at (425) 385-3839. Your oral health is our top priority, and we're committed to getting you back to smiling confidently as soon as possible. Request an appointment today!