A Quick Guide to Dental Emergencies: What to Do and When to Call

Dental emergencies can be scary, whether it's a sudden, severe toothache or a knocked-out tooth from an accident. Knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make all the difference in saving a tooth and managing pain. 

Here at Northwest Dental, your health is our top priority. While you should always call our office immediately for guidance in an emergency, here are some essential first-aid steps for common dental emergencies. 

 Severe Toothache 

A persistent or severe toothache is often a sign of an underlying issue, like a cavity or infection. 

First Aid: Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water to clean the area. Gently use dental floss to remove any food particles that may be stuck between your teeth. To reduce swelling and pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. 

What NOT to Do: Never place aspirin or other painkillers directly on your gums or aching tooth, as this can burn the gum tissue. 

Contact Northwest Dental: Call us right away. We can determine if you need to be seen immediately or if an over-the-counter pain reliever is sufficient until your scheduled appointment. If the pain is severe and/or there is swelling in the gum tissue and our office is closed, head to the emergency room or urgent care.  

Chipped or Broken Tooth 

A chipped tooth can range from a minor cosmetic issue to a serious problem if the nerve is exposed. 

First Aid: Save any broken pieces of the tooth. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If there is bleeding, apply a piece of gauze to the area for about 10 minutes or until the bleeding stops. Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and pain. 

Contact Northwest Dental: Even if there is no pain, it's crucial to see your dentist to prevent further damage or infection. Bring any broken pieces of the tooth with you. 

Knocked-Out Tooth 

This is a true dental emergency where every minute counts. Time is critical for a successful re-implantation. 

First Aid: 

1. Find the tooth. Handle it by the crown (the part you see in your mouth), not the root. 

1. Rinse gently. If it's dirty, rinse it with water, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments. 

1. Attempt to re-insert. If possible, gently try to place the tooth back into its socket. Gently bite down on a piece of gauze or a clean cloth to hold it in place. 

1. Keep it moist. If you cannot re-insert the tooth, keep it moist. The best options are to place it in a small container of milk, in your mouth next to your cheek, or in an emergency tooth preservation kit. Do not use tap water. 

Contact Northwest Dental: Call us immediately. Getting professional attention within 30 minutes to an hour offers the best chance of saving the tooth. If our office is closed, head to the emergency room immediately.