Dental emergencies can be sudden, painful, and stressful. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, unbearable toothache, or a broken filling, knowing how to respond quickly can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll explain what qualifies as a dental emergency, the most common types, what you should do in the moment, and when to immediately call a dentist.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency typically involves:
- Severe pain or bleeding
- A tooth that has been knocked out or broken
- An infection or abscess that could spread
- Oral injuries from accidents or trauma
If your situation causes extreme discomfort, impacts your ability to eat or speak, or involves visible damage to teeth or gums — it’s likely a dental emergency.
Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do
1. Severe Toothache
A persistent, throbbing toothache can indicate an underlying infection or decay that has reached the nerve. If the pain doesn’t subside with over-the-counter painkillers or worsens at night, you should seek immediate dental care.
What to Do:
Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
When a tooth is completely dislodged, time is critical. Quick action can increase the chances of saving the tooth.
What to Do:
Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently with water, and try to reinsert it in the socket. If that’s not possible, place it in a container of milk or your saliva and visit the dentist within 30 minutes.
3. Cracked or Broken Tooth
A crack or fracture in a tooth can lead to infection if not treated early. If a large portion is broken, nerves may be exposed, causing significant pain.
What to Do:
Rinse your mouth and save any broken pieces. Apply a cold compress and visit your dentist immediately.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can expose sensitive parts of your tooth and increase the risk of further damage.
What to Do:
Try to keep the crown or filling and avoid chewing on that side of the mouth. Use dental cement (available at pharmacies) to temporarily reattach it if necessary.
5. Dental Abscess or Swelling
An abscess is a serious infection that forms around the root of a tooth or between the tooth and gum. It can cause swelling, pain, fever, and even lead to systemic infection.
What to Do:
Rinse with warm salt water, apply a cold compress, and seek urgent dental care. Do not attempt to pop the swelling.
6. Soft Tissue Injuries (Gums, Lips, Tongue)
Injuries from accidents, falls, or sports may cause bleeding or deep cuts.
What to Do:
Clean the area gently with water, apply gauze for bleeding, and use ice to reduce swelling. If bleeding doesn’t stop within 10–15 minutes, visit the dental clinic or emergency room.
What’s NOT a Dental Emergency?
Some dental issues, while uncomfortable, don’t require emergency care. These include:
- Minor toothaches
- Lost retainers or mouthguards
- Chipped teeth without pain
- Small cavities
- Mild sensitivity
In such cases, book a regular dental appointment at your convenience.
When to Call Dr. Raman Sandhu Dental Clinic
If you’re in doubt about whether your condition is a true emergency, it’s better to be cautious. Reach out to Dr. Raman Sandhu Dental Clinic immediately if you experience:
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Intense pain not relieved by medication
- Sudden swelling in the mouth or jaw
- Trauma to the mouth or face
- Signs of infection (fever, bad taste, pus)
Our experienced team is equipped to handle urgent dental issues promptly and compassionately.
Tips to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not all dental emergencies are avoidable, here are some tips to reduce your risk:
- Visit the dentist twice a year for checkups
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Avoid chewing on hard objects (ice, pens, hard candy)
- Don’t ignore minor dental issues—they can worsen
- Practice good oral hygiene daily
24/7 Emergency Dental Support
Dr. Raman Sandhu Dental Clinic is committed to providing quick, reliable, and expert care for dental emergencies. Our clinic in Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar is well-equipped with the latest technology and offers patient-first care to manage any urgent dental situation.
If you’re facing a dental emergency, don’t delay.
📞 Call us now or visit https://drramansandhu.com to book immediate assistance.