Dental emergencies can be painful, distressing, and often happen without warning. Whether it’s a sudden and painful toothache or a dental injury, it’s important to know how to react in the moment. While nothing replaces expert care, there are several things you can do to manage the situation and protect your teeth until you can get to a dentist.
Toothache or Ongoing Dental Pain
What you should do:
Start by rinsing your mouth with warm (not hot) water to flush out any debris. If food is stuck between your teeth, gently use dental floss to remove it. Over-the-counter pain relief, including ibuprofen or paracetamol, can help ease discomfort.
Avoid:
Don’t apply aspirin or any painkiller directly onto your gums or the sore tooth—it can cause irritation or burns.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Steps to take:
If a tooth breaks or chips, gather any fragments and rinse your mouth with warm water. If there’s any bleeding, you need to apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze. A cold compress on the cheek can also help reduce swelling.
To prevent cuts to your mouth, cover any jagged edges with dental wax if available, or even sugar-free gum as a short-term solution.
Tooth Knocked Out (Avulsed Tooth)
Immediate action matters:
Pick the tooth up carefully by the crown (top part) and avoid touching the root. If it’s dirty, gently rinse it in milk or saline solution—never scrub it or use soap.
If possible, try to place the tooth back into the socket. If that’s not an option, keep it in milk or inside your mouth between your cheek and gum, and get to a dentist immediately. The faster you move, the better the chances of saving the tooth.
Lost Filling or Crown
Temporary fix:
Keep the crown or filling safe if you still have it. For a missing filling, you can use a temporary dental repair kit from a pharmacy, or in a pinch, sugar-free gum to plug the gap. This can help reduce sensitivity until you’re seen by a dentist. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and steer clear of foods that are too hot or cold.
Swelling or Gum Abscess
How to respond:
Swelling in the gums, cheek, or face could point to an infection. Rinse your mouth gently with a warm saltwater solution a few times a day to help soothe inflammation. Painkillers may offer short-term relief, but an abscess won’t heal on its own and needs urgent dental treatment.
Cracked Tooth
Protect the area:
Cracks may not always hurt, but they can lead to complications if ignored. Rinse your mouth with water, and avoid using the affected tooth to bite or chew. A cold compress may help if swelling is present. Even if the crack seems minor, book an appointment quickly to avoid infection or further damage.
Get Help Without Delay
While these steps can make you more comfortable and protect your teeth temporarily, they’re not substitutes for professional care. Seeing a dentist promptly is crucial.
If you live in West Sussex in the UK and need urgent attention, don’t delay—emergency dental care in Bognor Regis is available to help treat your condition swiftly and effectively, reducing the risk of long-term issues.
What Have We Learned?
When it comes to dental emergencies, time is a critical factor. Acting quickly, using temporary measures safely, and contacting a dental professional as soon as you can will help preserve your oral health and prevent small problems from becoming major ones. Knowing what to do makes all the difference—so keep this guide in mind, just in case.
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