It happens when you least expect it. One moment, you’re biting into an apple. The next, you feel a chip. Or maybe you’re playing catch with your kids, and a stray ball catches you square in the mouth. Or you wake up with a throbbing toothache that just won’t quit. Dental emergencies are stressful. But panicking won’t help. Knowing what to do, and what not to do, during a dental emergency can save your tooth and save you a lot of pain.
At Horizon Family Dental Care in Hanover, we’re here for you when emergencies happen. Here’s a quick guide to handling the most common ones.
Knocked-Out Tooth
This is the most time-sensitive emergency. If you act fast, there’s a chance we could save the tooth.
Here’s what to do:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown, the white part. Don’t touch the root.
- If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or water. Don’t scrub it.
- Try to place the tooth back in its socket. Bite down gently on a clean cloth to hold it in place.
- If you can’t reinsert it, put the tooth in a cup of milk or saliva. Water is a last resort.
Then call us immediately. The first 30 minutes are critical.
Severe Toothache
A severe toothache is your body’s way of saying something is wrong. It could be a cavity, an infection, or even a damaged tooth.
What to do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Gently floss around the tooth to remove any trapped food.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
What not to do: Don’t place aspirin or any painkiller directly on your gum. That can burn your gum tissue and make things worse.
Then call us. We need to figure out what’s causing the pain and treat the root of the problem.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
A chipped or broken tooth isn’t always a rush-to-the-office emergency. But it does need attention.
What to do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Save any pieces you can find. Place them in a small container with milk or saliva.
- If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth.
- If the tooth is sharp, cover it with sugar-free gum or dental wax to protect your tongue and cheek.
Then call us to schedule an appointment. Most chips can be fixed easily with bonding or a filling.
Lost Filling or Crown
When a filling or crown falls out, that tooth is vulnerable. It’s more sensitive and more likely to crack.
What to do:
- If you still have the crown, keep it safe.
- Gently clean the inside of the crown with toothpaste and water.
- You can temporarily reattach it with over-the-counter dental cement (found at most drugstores). Don’t use super glue or any household adhesive.
- Avoid chewing on that side.
Then call us. We’ll get you in to reattach the crown or replace the filling properly.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscess is a pocket of infection at the root of your tooth. It’s serious and can spread to other parts of your body.
Signs to watch for:
- Severe, throbbing pain
- Swelling in your face or cheek
- A pimple-like bump on your gum
- Fever
- A bad taste in your mouth
What to do: Call us immediately. Don’t wait. An abscess won’t heal on its own. You need professional treatment.
Objects Stuck Between Teeth
Sometimes food or small objects get wedged between teeth. It’s uncomfortable and can irritate your gums.
What to do: Gently try to remove it with dental floss. Don’t use metal objects like paperclips or pins. They can damage your teeth and gums. If floss doesn’t work, call us.
When in Doubt, Call Us
If you’re not sure whether something is an emergency, call us. We’ll ask you a few questions and help you figure out what to do.
At Horizon Family Dental Care in Hanover, we’re here for you when you need us most. Keep our number handy. And if something happens, don’t wait. We’ll get you in as soon as possible and help you get relief.