Dental Emergency: What to Do and How to Prepare

A dental emergency can happen at any time, and it’s important to know what to do in the event of one. Whether it’s a broken tooth, severe toothache, or another issue, dental emergencies can be painful and cause discomfort. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for a dental emergency and what to do if one occurs.

Preparing for a Dental Emergency

The best way to prepare for a dental emergency is to have a plan in place. Here are some things you can do to prepare:

Research emergency dentists in your area: It’s a good idea to have the phone numbers and addresses of emergency dentists in your area on hand. This way, if a dental emergency occurs, you’ll know where to go for help.
Keep a dental emergency kit: Keeping a dental emergency kit in your home can be helpful in the event of an emergency. Your kit should include gauze, a small container with a lid, ibuprofen, and a cold pack. These items can help to manage pain and reduce swelling until you’re able to see a dentist.
Know what to do: Understanding what to do in the event of a dental emergency can help to minimize pain and discomfort. Knowing how to handle a broken tooth or a knocked-out tooth can make a big difference in the outcome of the emergency.

What to Do in the Event of a Dental Emergency

If a dental emergency occurs, it’s important to act quickly. Here are some steps to take in the event of a dental emergency:

Stop the bleeding: If there’s bleeding, use gauze to apply pressure to the area until the bleeding stops. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, seek medical attention immediately.
Save any broken pieces: If a tooth is broken, save any pieces that you can. Rinse them off with warm water and put them in a container with a lid. This will help the dentist to determine if the tooth can be saved.
Rinse your mouth: If you have a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. This can help to reduce pain and swelling.
Use a cold pack: If there’s swelling, use a cold pack to help reduce it. Apply the cold pack to the affected area for 10-15 minutes at a time.
Seek dental care: Call an emergency dentist and explain the situation. They may be able to see you right away or give you advice on how to manage the situation until you can get to their office.

Types of Dental Emergencies

There are several types of dental emergencies that can occur. Here are some of the most common:

Broken or chipped tooth: If a tooth is broken or chipped, it can be painful and cause discomfort. If the tooth is still intact, save any pieces you can and see a dentist as soon as possible. If the tooth is completely knocked out, see a dentist immediately.
Toothache: A severe toothache can be caused by several factors, including decay or infection. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and take ibuprofen for pain. See a dentist as soon as possible.
Knocked-out tooth: If a tooth is knocked out, it’s important to act quickly. Rinse the tooth off with warm water and put it in a container with a lid. Seek dental care immediately.
Lost filling or crown: If a filling or crown comes out, it can be painful and cause sensitivity. See a dentist as soon as possible to have the filling or crown replaced.