What Should I Do If I Have A Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them—whether it’s a sudden toothache in the middle of the night or a knocked-out tooth during a weekend game. When these situations arise, knowing what to do can mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth.

At Southcoast Dental, we understand how stressful dental emergencies can be. That’s why we offer same-day emergency appointments to provide fast, reliable care when you need it most.

This Article Will Address:

• What qualifies as a dental emergency
• When to seek emergency dental care vs. going to the ER
• Step-by-step guidance for handling common dental emergencies
• Pain management tips before seeing a dentist
• The importance of urgent dental care
• How to prevent future dental emergencies

What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

Not all dental issues require immediate attention, but some problems demand urgent care to prevent pain, infection, or permanent damage. A true dental emergency is any situation where immediate treatment is needed to save a tooth, stop ongoing tissue bleeding, or relieve severe pain. Common dental emergencies that need immediate care:

• Severe toothaches that don’t improve with pain relievers
• Knocked-out or broken teeth due to an injury
• Swelling or abscesses that could indicate an infection
• Uncontrolled bleeding from the gums, tongue, or cheeks

If you’re unsure, call Southcoast Dental, and our team will guide you on the best course of action.

What to Do During Common Dental Emergencies

What Should I Do If I Have a Severe Toothache?

If a tooth pain persists beyond 24 hours or worsens, it could signal an infection or nerve damage requiring urgent care.

Immediate steps:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove debris
• Gently floss to dislodge trapped food
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (avoid aspirin if bleeding)

How Should I Handle a Knocked-Out Tooth?

A knocked-out tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. If treated within 30-60 minutes, there’s a higher chance it can be saved.

Steps to take immediately:

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown (avoid touching the root)
2. Rinse it gently with water—do not scrub or use soap
3. Try to place it back into the socket and bite down on gauze
4. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva to keep it moist
5. Call Southcoast Dental immediately and head to our office

What Steps Should I Take If I Lose a Filling or Crown?

A missing filling or crown exposes sensitive tooth tissue and may cause pain or further damage.

Temporary solutions until you see a dentist:

• Apply dental cement (available at pharmacies) to cover the exposed area
• Use sugar-free gum as a temporary barrier
• Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth

Schedule a dental appointment to prevent further issues.

What Should I Do If My Child Has a Dental Emergency?

Common pediatric dental emergencies:

• Knocked-out baby teeth – Unlike adult teeth, baby teeth aren’t typically re-implanted. See a pediatric dentist for evaluation.
• Broken or chipped teeth – Apply a cold compress and save any tooth fragments.
• Lip or tongue injuries – Apply gentle pressure with gauze to stop bleeding.

How Can I Manage Dental Pain Until I See a Dentist?

• Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief
• Use a cold compress on your cheek for 15-20 minutes
• Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods that may worsen sensitivity
• Keep your head elevated while sleeping to reduce throbbing

What NOT to do:

• Do not place aspirin directly on gums—it can burn tissue
• Do not ignore pain that worsens or persists—this could indicate an infection

Why Is Urgent Dental Care Important?

Many people ignore mild discomfort, but dental problems rarely resolve on their own. Seeking prompt treatment can:

• Stop infections before they spread
• Prevent the need for extractions or root canals
• Reduce long-term costs by avoiding complex procedures
• Help you recover faster with minimal discomfort

How Can I Prevent Dental Emergencies?

Good oral care is your best defense. Here’s how to reduce your risk:

• Schedule regular checkups and cleanings at Southcoast Dental
• Brush twice daily and floss to prevent decay and gum disease
• Wear a mouthguard for sports or teeth grinding
• Avoid chewing hard foods such as ice, pens, or hard candy

By taking these steps, you can protect your smile from unexpected emergencies.

Need Emergency Dental Care in Wareham, MA? Call Southcoast Dental Now!

When dental emergencies strike, fast action is key. At Southcoast Dental, we provide same-day emergency appointments to help you feel better as quickly as possible. If you experience a dental emergency, call us immediately to schedule an urgent visit.

Sources:

1. American Dental Association – Emergency Dental Guidelines
2. Mayo Clinic – Dental Pain Management
3. Cleveland Clinic – What to Do in a Dental Emergency