Handling Dental Emergencies: What You Need to Know

A toothache can be caused by various issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or an abscess. If you experience a toothache:

• Rinse: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
• Floss: Gently floss to remove any food particles stuck between your teeth.
• Pain Relief: Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed.
• See a Dentist: Contact your dentist if the pain persists.

Try to stay calm. If you chip or break a tooth, here is what to do:

• Save the Pieces: Keep any pieces of the tooth if you can.
• Stop the Bleeding: If the area bleeds, press a piece of gauze on it.
• See a Dentist: Call your dentist right away to book a visit.

A knocked-out tooth requires quick action:

• Handle with Care: Hold the tooth by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root.
• Rinse: Rinse the tooth gently with water if it's dirty, but do not scrub it.
• Reinsert: Try to place the tooth back in its socket if possible. If not, store it in milk or a tooth preservation product.
• See a Dentist: Visit your dentist immediately. The chances of saving the tooth are higher if you see a dentist within an hour.

If a filling or crown falls out, it can be upsetting. Here is what you can do:

• Temporary Fix: Use dental cement or denture glue to hold the crown back on for now. You can also use it to cover the hole in the tooth. You can buy both at a pharmacy.
• See a Dentist: Book a visit with your dentist. They will fix the filling or crown the right way.

An abscess is a serious infection, so we want you to be looked after quickly. It can form around the root of a tooth. It can also form in the space between your teeth and gums.

• Rinse: Try rinsing your mouth with mild salt water. Do this several times a day.
• Pain Relief: You can take pain medicine that you can buy without a prescription.
• See a Dentist: Please get dental care right away. An abscess that is left alone can cause serious problems.

Not all dental emergencies can be stopped. But there are things you can do to lower your risk:

• Regular Checkups: Visit your dentist often for checkups and cleanings.
• Good Oral Hygiene: Try to brush twice a day. Floss daily. Use mouthwash.
• Protective Gear: Wear a mouthguard when you play sports. Try not to chew hard foods like ice or popcorn kernels.

At Carlton Dental, we are here to help with all your dental needs. That includes emergencies. If you have a dental emergency, please contact us right away. Your mouth health and comfort matter most to us.