Dental Emergencies

1. Avulsed Tooth (Knocked-Out Tooth)

If a tooth has been completely knocked out, quick action can make the difference between saving or losing it. When a tooth exits the mouth, the tissues, nerves, and blood vessels are damaged.

Immediate steps to take:

• Call our office right away.
• Pick up the tooth by the crown only and rinse it under warm water. Do not touch the root.
• If possible, place the tooth back into its socket. If not, tuck it into your cheek or store it in milk, saliva, or water.
• Reach our office as quickly as possible.

In many cases, the tooth can be reattached successfully. If the inner structures are damaged, root canal therapy may be necessary to preserve it.

2. Lost Filling or Crown

Crowns or fillings can loosen or fall out due to decay, trauma, or biting hard objects. Exposed teeth may become sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure.

What to do while waiting for care:

• Apply clove oil to reduce pain.
• Clean the crown and temporarily reattach it using temporary dental cement from a pharmacy.
• If the crown is missing, place temporary cement on the tooth to protect it.
• Never use household glue.

Once in our care, we will assess the crown, treat any decay, and either reattach it or create a new restoration as needed.

3. Cracked or Broken Teeth

Teeth can crack or break due to trauma, grinding, or biting hard objects. Pain may range from mild to severe, especially if the fracture extends to the root.

Steps to take immediately:

• Call our office to schedule urgent care.
• Rinse the mouth and any tooth fragments with lukewarm water.
• Apply gauze to control bleeding.
• Use a cold compress on the cheek to reduce swelling.
• Take over-the-counter pain relief as needed.

Treatment may involve reattaching fragments, root canal therapy, or crowns, depending on the severity of the damage.

4. Dislodged or Loose Teeth

When teeth are loosened or partially dislodged by trauma or decay, there is often a chance to save them.

What to do:

• Call our office immediately for evaluation.
• Apply a cold compress and take over-the-counter pain medication to manage discomfort.

Your dentist may reposition the tooth and stabilize it with splints. If necessary, root canal therapy will help ensure the tooth heals properly.