Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them—often outside regular office hours and at the most inconvenient times. Whether it’s a chipped tooth, sudden swelling, or a tooth that has been knocked out, knowing how to respond immediately can help preserve your oral health and even save a tooth.
This guide will help you recognize true dental emergencies and provide practical steps to take before you’re able to see a dentist.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
Not every dental issue requires urgent care, but certain situations demand immediate attention:
- A knocked-out tooth
- Fractured, chipped, or broken teeth
- Severe or persistent toothache
- Facial swelling, abscesses, or signs of infection
- Uncontrolled oral bleeding
- Lost crowns or fillings, especially if pain is involved
If you’re experiencing significant pain, bleeding, or trauma to the mouth, it’s best to treat it as a dental emergency.
Immediate Steps You Can Take
Until you reach a dental professional, there are specific actions you can take to protect your teeth and minimize complications.
Knocked-Out Tooth
- Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root.
- Rinse it gently with water—do not scrub or remove any tissue fragments.
- If possible, place the tooth back in the socket. If not, store it in milk or saliva.
- Seek dental care within 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
Severe Toothache or Swelling
- Rinse with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen.
- Do not apply aspirin directly to the gum—it may cause burns.
Broken Tooth or Lost Filling
- Collect and store any broken tooth fragments.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side of your mouth.
- Use temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) to protect the area.
ER or Dentist: Where Should You Go?
Most dental emergencies should be directed to your dentist. However, certain symptoms require emergency medical attention:
- Severe facial trauma
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- Swelling that affects breathing, vision, or is accompanied by a high fever
When in doubt, call your dentist. Many practices offer after-hours care or emergency protocols.
Preventing Future Dental Emergencies
While not all emergencies can be avoided, the following steps can reduce your risk:
- Wear a mouthguard during contact sports or if you grind your teeth at night.
- Avoid chewing on hard substances like ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels.
- Don’t use your teeth to open packaging or bottles.
- Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings to catch problems early.
Be Prepared: Know Who to Call
Dental emergencies are stressful, but knowing how to respond can make a critical difference. Save your dentist’s emergency number in your phone and post it somewhere visible at home.
If you’re currently experiencing a dental emergency, call our office at 352-372-3600. For non-urgent concerns or preventive care, we encourage you to schedule a checkup today. Protect your smile before it becomes an emergency.