Emergency Dental Problems: What You Need to Know

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them — a fall, a cracked tooth during dinner, or sudden, severe tooth pain. Knowing what to do and when to seek help can make a huge difference in saving your teeth and easing pain quickly.

In this article, we’ll break down common dental emergencies, what you can do at home, and when to call your dentist right away.

⚠️ What Is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that causes:

  • Severe pain

  • Bleeding

  • Swelling

  • Broken or lost teeth

  • Infection

Not all tooth problems need immediate care, but when in doubt, it’s always best to contact your dentist for advice.

🦷 Common Dental Emergencies

1. Toothache or Dental Pain

  • Can be caused by decay, infection, or trauma.

  • What to do: Rinse with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain relief, and call your dentist ASAP.

2. Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth

  • Often due to injury or biting something hard.

  • What to do: Save any broken pieces, avoid chewing on that side, and see your dentist quickly.

3. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion)

  • Time-sensitive emergency!

  • What to do: Gently rinse the tooth, avoid touching the root, and place it back in the socket or in milk. Get to the dentist within 30–60 minutes.

4. Loose or Dislodged Tooth

  • Can still be saved with urgent dental care.

  • What to do: Avoid wiggling the tooth and see your dentist immediately.

5. Swelling or Abscess

  • A sign of serious infection that can spread.

  • What to do: Rinse with warm salt water and call your dentist or doctor urgently. If swelling spreads to the face or neck, go to the emergency room.

6. Lost Filling, Crown, or Bridge

  • Leaves the tooth exposed and sensitive.

  • What to do: Use dental wax (from a pharmacy) to cover the area temporarily. Book a dental visit ASAP.

🏥 When to Visit the Emergency Room

Go to the ER instead of a dental clinic if you have:

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing

  • Facial swelling that’s rapidly worsening

  • High fever with dental pain

  • Trauma to the face or jaw

🧰 Dental Emergency First Aid Kit (Good to Have at Home)

  • Gauze

  • Pain relievers (not aspirin if bleeding)

  • Salt for rinsing

  • Dental wax or temporary filling kit

  • Container with a lid (for lost teeth)

👩‍⚕️ Preventing Dental Emergencies

  • Don’t use your teeth to open things

  • Wear a mouthguard during sports

  • Visit your dentist regularly for checkups

  • Treat small problems early before they become big emergencies

💡 Final Thoughts

Dental emergencies can be stressful, but staying calm and knowing what steps to take can save your smile. If you're ever unsure, call your dentist — it's better to check than to wait.