Dental emergencies can strike without warning, and when they do, the pain and panic can be overwhelming. Whether it’s a throbbing toothache that won’t let up or a broken tooth from an accidental fall, knowing how to respond can make all the difference in saving your smile and minimizing long-term damage.
At Sinquefield Family Dentistry, we believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to handle dental emergencies with confidence. Here’s what you need to know when the unexpected happens.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires immediate attention to relieve pain, stop bleeding, prevent infection, or save a tooth. Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe or persistent toothache
- Chipped, cracked, or broken tooth
- Knocked-out tooth (avulsed tooth)
- Loose tooth or tooth out of alignment
- Oral bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Swelling in the face or gums (especially with fever)
- Signs of infection, such as pus or a bad taste in the mouth
If you’re unsure whether something is an emergency, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call your dentist right away.
What to Do If You Have a Toothache
A toothache can range from mild discomfort to intense, radiating pain, and it’s often a sign of an underlying issue like decay, infection, or gum disease.
Steps to Take:
- Rinse Your Mouth: Use warm salt water to rinse and remove any food particles.
- Floss Gently: Food stuck between teeth can sometimes cause sharp pain. Floss carefully to check.
- Apply a Cold Compress: If swelling is present, use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes.
- Take Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.
- Call Your Dentist: Persistent or severe tooth pain should never be ignored. It could indicate an abscess or serious infection requiring immediate treatment.
Avoid:
- Placing aspirin directly on the gums or teeth, which can cause tissue burns.
- Using very hot or very cold compresses if sensitivity is high.
What to Do If You Break or Chip a Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth may not always hurt, but it can quickly lead to further damage, sharp edges, and increased sensitivity.
Steps to Take:
- Save Any Pieces: If possible, collect and rinse any broken tooth fragments in clean water.
- Rinse Your Mouth: Gently clean the area with warm water to remove debris.
- Stop Bleeding: If bleeding occurs, apply gauze or a clean cloth with gentle pressure.
- Protect the Area: Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent cuts to your tongue or cheeks.
- Cold Compress: Reduce swelling by applying a cold pack to the outside of your face.
- See Your Dentist Quickly: Call Sinquefield Family Dentistry right away to assess the damage and determine the next steps, whether it’s bonding, a crown, or other restorative treatment.
What If a Tooth Is Knocked Out?
A knocked-out tooth (especially a permanent one) is a true emergency that requires fast action, ideally within 30 minutes, to have the best chance of saving the tooth.
Steps to Take:
- Handle the Tooth by the Crown: Avoid touching the root to reduce the risk of damaging vital cells.
- Rinse Gently: Use water to clean the tooth if it’s dirty, but do not scrub or use soap.
- Reinsert If Possible: Try to place the tooth back into its socket, holding it gently in place.
- Store the Tooth Safely: If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in a container of milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation solution.
- Get to the Dentist Immediately: Time is critical—call us and come in as quickly as possible for the best outcome.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not all accidents can be avoided, many dental emergencies can be prevented with simple precautions:
- Don’t chew hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activity
- Avoid using teeth to open packages or bottles
- Maintain regular dental visits to catch problems early
- Treat tooth pain or sensitivity promptly before it worsens
Emergency Care You Can Count On at Sinquefield Family Dentistry
At Sinquefield Family Dentistry, we understand that dental emergencies don’t always happen during convenient hours, but fast, professional care can make all the difference. If you’re in pain, have a damaged tooth, or suspect an infection, don’t wait. Our experienced team is here to help you find relief, restore your smile, and protect your long-term oral health.
Call Sinquefield Family Dentistry today if you’re experiencing a dental emergency—or save our number (615-896-8181) now so you’re prepared when you need it most. We’re here to help when it matters most.
