When it comes to dental emergencies, whether it’s a severe toothache or a knocked-out tooth, quick action is often essential to prevent complications and preserve your smile. Knowing the most common dental emergencies and how they’re typically treated can help you stay calm and get the care you need. Here are the top dental emergencies and what to expect in terms of treatment.
Severe Toothache
A sudden, intense toothache is one of the most common dental emergencies. It can be caused by a variety of issues, including tooth decay, infection, gum disease, or even a cracked tooth. If the pain is sharp, throbbing, or persistent, you should seek dental care as soon as possible.
Treatment:
The dentist will first identify the cause of the pain. If decay or infection is involved, treatments may include a filling, root canal therapy, or even tooth extraction in severe cases. Pain relief and antibiotics may also be prescribed.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Having a tooth knocked out (avulsed) is a serious emergency, especially if you want to save the tooth. This can happen due to trauma, sports injuries, or accidents.
Treatment:
If you can find the tooth, rinse it gently (without scrubbing) and try to place it back into the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saline and see a dentist immediately, ideally within 30 minutes to an hour. The dentist will attempt to reinsert the tooth and stabilize it with a splint. Success depends heavily on how quickly treatment is received.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
Teeth can chip or break due to trauma, biting something hard, or weakened enamel. This can range from a minor cosmetic issue to a painful, exposed nerve.
Treatment:
Treatment depends on the extent of the damage. Minor chips may be smoothed or repaired with dental bonding. Larger breaks may require a crown, and if the pulp is exposed, a root canal may be necessary.
Lost Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown can leave the tooth exposed and sensitive, potentially allowing bacteria to enter and cause decay.
Treatment:
Keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Over-the-counter dental cement can provide temporary protection. A dentist will replace the filling or re-cement a crown, or create a new one if needed.
Dental Abscess
An abscess is a painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and tooth. It can cause swelling, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth.
Treatment:
Abscesses need prompt treatment. Your dentist may drain the infection, perform a root canal, or extract the tooth. Antibiotics are often prescribed to eliminate the infection.
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. If you experience any of these issues, contact your dentist or an emergency dental clinic right away. Quick, professional care can relieve pain, prevent further damage, and save your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Tony Nguyen is a graduate of the Nova Southeastern College of Dental Medicine. He has remained committed to ongoing education, completing more than 150 hours of coursework every year with a focus in areas including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics. Dr. Nguyen also stays current in his field through memberships with the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Texas Dental Association. If you’ve found yourself in a dental emergency, let Dr. Nguyen and our talented team take care of you. Schedule your appointment online or call our Midlothian office at (972) 723-1148.