Tooth Trouble Tips: Common Dental Emergencies and Their Fixes

Dental emergencies can strike without warning. From sudden pain to broken teeth, these problems are stressful, inconvenient, and often costly. The good news is that most emergencies can be treated quickly by your dentist, and others can be alleviated temporarily. If you want to prepare for the eventuality of dental disasters, keep reading. You’ll find some of the most common dental emergencies and learn how to deal with them.

Severe Toothache

A toothache is one of the most common emergencies. Often caused by deep cavities or infection, the pain can range from dull to unbearable. Until you see your dentist, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers and rinse with warm salt water to kill bacteria. Your dentist may recommend a filling, root canal, or extraction depending on the cause.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If a permanent tooth is knocked out, time is critical. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the part you bite with), rinse it gently, and place it back in the socket if possible. If that’s not an option, keep it in milk, saliva, or a tooth-preservation kit until you reach the dentist (not water). You’ll need to get to your dentist within thirty minutes to an hour to save your tooth.

Broken or Chipped Tooth

A cracked or chipped tooth isn’t always painful immediately, but it will need professional care to prevent infection or further damage. Depending on the severity of the issue, your dentist may smooth the rough edge, place a filling, or cover it with a crown. Until then, you can use sugar-free gum or dental wax to cover the exposed part of the tooth.

Lost Filling or Crown

It might not sound like an emergency, but a missing filling or crown can expose sensitive inner layers of your tooth. Until you get to your dentist, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and keep the area clean. Treatment may ultimately involve replacing the restoration or creating a new one.

Abscess or Gum Infection

An abscess is a painful infection around a tooth or your gums. It often appears as a swollen bump and can cause fever or jaw pain if left alone. Abscesses are serious—sometimes even life-threatening, so don’t wait to get help. Your dentist will drain the infection and may often recommend antibiotics or a root canal.

Dental emergencies are stressful, but they’re also treatable. With quick thinking and a solid action plan, you can protect your smile and regain your comfort quickly. As soon as you notice symptoms, reach out to your dentist. They’ll be happy to help in your moment of need.

About the Author

Dr. Proshat Shahrestany is a highly skilled dentist with nearly two decades of experience providing compassionate, comprehensive care. A graduate of the UCLA School of Dentistry, she founded Studio City Dental Arts in 2012 to create an office where safety, comfort, and patient-centered treatment come first. She is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. Call (818) 760-0200 to schedule an emergency appointment with us or visit our website to learn more.