Dental emergencies have a way of showing up at the worst possible moment. Maybe it’s a Saturday morning, a holiday, or right before a big event. Suddenly you’re dealing with pain, swelling, or a tooth that isn’t where it’s supposed to be. In those moments, panic is normal. But knowing what to do, and what not to do, when faced with a knocked-out tooth or severe toothache can make a huge difference in saving your tooth and easing your pain.
At Clinton Family Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re here to help. Here’s your simple guide to handling the most common dental emergencies.
1. A Knocked-Out Tooth
This is the one where every minute counts. If your tooth gets knocked out completely, here’s what to do:
- Handle it by the crown, not the root: Pick the tooth up by the top part, the part you chew with. Never touch the root, because the delicate tissue there helps the tooth reattach.
- Rinse it gently: If it’s dirty, rinse it with milk or saline solution. Do not scrub it or use tap water, which can damage the root cells.
- Try to put it back: If you can, gently place the tooth back into its socket and bite down softly on a clean cloth to hold it there. If that’s not possible, keep the tooth in a cup of milk or saline. Do not let it dry out.
- Call us immediately: Time is critical. Ideally, you want to be seen within 30 minutes.
2. A Severe Toothache
A throbbing toothache can make it hard to think straight. Here’s how to manage it until you can get in:
- Rinse with warm salt water: This helps clean the area and reduce swelling.
- Use a cold compress: Hold it against the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes at a time. This numbs the area and reduces swelling.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. Never place aspirin directly on your gums. It can burn the tissue.
- Avoid very hot or cold foods: They’ll only make the pain worse.
- Call us: A severe toothache usually means something is wrong beneath the surface. Don’t wait it out.
3. A Chipped or Broken Tooth
If you chip a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If the break is sharp and cutting your tongue or cheek, cover it with a piece of sugar-free gum or dental wax until you can get to us.
Save any pieces of the tooth and bring them with you.
4. A Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown isn’t usually an emergency, but it needs attention soon. Here’s what to do:
- Keep the crown if you have it. Don’t try to glue it back on yourself. Just bring it with you.
- Use drugstore dental cement as a temporary fix if needed.
- Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
- Call us to schedule a repair.
5. Swelling in Your Face or Jaw
Swelling can signal an infection that needs prompt care. If your face or jaw is swollen, call us right away. In the meantime, apply a cold compress and keep your head elevated. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, go to the emergency room immediately.
When to Call Us vs. Go to the ER
Call us for: knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, chipped teeth, lost fillings, and manageable swelling.
Go to the ER for: trouble breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or a suspected jaw fracture.
We’re Here When You Need Us
Dental emergencies are stressful, but you don’t have to handle them alone. Keep our number handy, and don’t hesitate to reach out. Even if you’re not sure whether it’s a true emergency, call us or request an appointment online. We’d rather help you figure it out than have you suffer in pain.
If you’re in Clinton, Fayetteville, Kenansville, or Mt. Olive, we’re right here at 320 NorthEast Blvd. We’ll get you in as quickly as we can.
New patients: 910-507-7348
Current patients: 910-596-0606
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