Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly and require prompt attention to prevent complications. Knowing when to seek emergency care and how to handle common situations can save your tooth and reduce pain.
True Dental Emergencies
Seek immediate dental care for these situations:
- Knocked-out tooth (bring the tooth in milk or saliva)
- Severe toothache with swelling or fever
- Broken or fractured tooth with sharp edges
- Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth
- Abscess or severe infection
- Jaw injury or suspected fracture
- Lost filling or crown causing severe pain
Urgent But Not Emergency
These issues need prompt attention within 24-48 hours but aren't immediate emergencies: mild toothache, lost filling without pain, broken crown, food stuck between teeth, or minor chip without pain.
What to Do Before Your Appointment
For a knocked-out tooth, rinse gently and try to reinsert it or keep it in milk. For severe pain, take over-the-counter pain medication and apply a cold compress. For bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze. Never apply aspirin directly to gums as it can cause burns.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Many emergencies are preventable with proper care: wear a mouthguard during sports, avoid chewing hard objects, maintain regular dental checkups, address small problems before they become emergencies, and practice good oral hygiene.
Don't wait if you're experiencing a dental emergency. Quick action can save your tooth and prevent serious complications. Contact an emergency dentist immediately for urgent dental issues.
Why Choose Michael's Dental?
Expert Care
Board-certified dentists with 20+ years experience
Modern Technology
State-of-the-art equipment and techniques
Flexible Financing
Payment plans available for all budgets
Same-Day Appointments
Emergency care available when you need it