Dental emergencies can happen at any time and often feel stressful. Knowing a few basic steps can help you stay calm and get the right help quickly.
Common Dental Emergencies
- Severe toothache: Rinse your mouth gently with warm water, floss carefully to remove trapped food and contact your dentist as soon as possible.
- Knocked-out adult tooth: Hold it by the crown, not the root. Rinse it gently if dirty, and if you can, place it back in the socket or keep it in milk. Seek urgent dental care straight away.
- Chipped or broken tooth: Rinse your mouth, save any pieces and call your dentist for advice.
- Lost filling or crown: Keep the crown safe and call your dentist. Avoid chewing on that side until you are seen.
Please note that a baby tooth that has been knocked out should not be put back in. Call your dentist for advice.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Some situations need immediate medical attention. If you have swelling of the face or mouth that is spreading, difficulty breathing or swallowing, bleeding that will not stop or a significant injury to the head or face, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department.
Be Prepared
It helps to keep your dentist’s phone number somewhere easy to find, and to know how to reach them outside normal hours. Wearing a mouthguard for sports can also help protect your teeth.
If you are ever unsure, call your dental clinic. The team can tell you whether you need to be seen right away and what to do in the meantime.
This article is general information and is not a substitute for professional dental advice. Please speak to your dentist about your own needs.
