Dental Emergencies

When dental emergencies occur — whether from accidents or chronic disease — teeth and surrounding oral tissues require immediate professional care. Understanding emergency procedures beforehand ensures better outcomes.

Knocked-Out Tooth

Pick it up without touching the root, gently clean it off with water, and put it back in its socket facing the correct way. Hold gentle pressure while rushing to the dental office or ER. If unable to replant immediately, place between cheek and gum or in cold milk.

Treatment Timeline: Seek care within six hours. For uncontrollable bleeding, go to the ER immediately.

Chipped Teeth

Locate broken pieces — reattachment may be possible. Schedule an urgent appointment and bring the fragments.

Tooth Pain

Acute or persistent tooth pain requires an urgent dental office visit. Common causes include:

• Tooth decay (bacterial infection)
• Need for root canal treatment
• Loose filling
• Sensitive teeth

Gum Emergencies

Injuries to gums, tongue, and cheek lining can result from accidental bites, falls, sports injuries, scalding liquids, foreign bodies, or abscesses.

First Aid: Rinse with dilute salt water. Clear any visible debris. Control bleeding by applying clean, damp material for 10–15 minutes. Proceed to the ER if unsuccessful.

Orthodontic Emergencies

True emergencies include trauma/injury to teeth, face, or mouth; infection/swelling of gums, mouth, or face; and severe, unmanageable pain. Seek immediate dental office or ER care. For loose, broken, or irritating hardware, contact our office for guidance.