Top 5 Most Common Dental Emergencies and What You Can Do

Dental emergencies often strike without warning, causing sharp pain, discomfort, and anxiety. Whether it’s a throbbing toothache, a chipped tooth, or one that’s been knocked out completely, knowing how to respond before you reach a dentist can make a big difference. At Bliss Dental Arts, we’re here to help with fast, effective care when you need it most.

1. Intense Tooth Pain

A severe toothache is one of the top reasons people reach out for urgent dental care. If the pain becomes constant or unbearable, it may be a sign of something more serious—such as an abscess, deep decay, or a cracked tooth. Ignoring it can result in more complications down the line.

What to do:

• Rinse with some warm salt water to soothe irritation.
• Gently floss around the tooth to remove trapped food or debris.
• Use a cold compress on the cheek to ease swelling and dull the pain.
• Avoid putting aspirin directly on the gums—it can actually make things worse.
• Call your dentist if the pain doesn’t subside, especially if it’s interfering with your daily routine.

2. Tooth Knocked Out

Having a tooth knocked out during sports or an accident can be alarming, but with quick action, the tooth might still be saved. Time is critical—seeing a dentist within an hour gives you the best chance of successful reimplantation.

What to do:

• Handle the tooth easily by the crown, and not the root, to avoid damage.
• Rinse it gently with water—don’t scrub or use cleaning agents.
• Try to place it back in the socket if you can do so safely.
• If that’s not possible, store the tooth in milk or saliva to keep it moist.
• Get to the dentist right away.

3. Cracked or Fractured Tooth

Biting down on something hard, sustaining a fall, or trauma caused to the mouth can resilt in a tooth to crack or break. Depending on the severity, it may expose sensitive inner layers, which can be painful and prone to infection.

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth using some warm water to clean the area.
• Use a cold compress to help control swelling.
• Save any broken pieces and do bring them to your appointment.
• Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
• Your dentist may suggest bonding, a crown, or a root canal all depending on how deep the crack goes.

4. Dental Abscess

An abscess is a serious oral infection often located near the root of a tooth or in the gums. It may be caused by untreated cavities, gum infections, or trauma. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth.

What to do:

• Rinse with warm salt water to help with pain and draw out fluid.
• Use a cold compress to ease swelling externally.
• Take over-the-counter pain medication as a temporary measure.
• Seek dental care as soon as possible—your provider may drain the abscess and give antibiotics to clear the infection.

5. Missing Filling or Crown

When a filling or crown comes out, the tooth underneath becomes vulnerable to decay, damage, or sensitivity. Though it might not hurt immediately, it’s important to address it quickly.

What to do:

• Hold onto the crown or filling and bring it with you.
• Apply only a small amount of clove oil to reduce sensitivity if needed.
• You can temporarily re-seat a crown using over-the-counter dental cement until you get to the clinic.
• Visit your dentist soon so they can properly restore the tooth and assess for further issues.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

Dental emergencies can escalate quickly. Whether you’re dealing with swelling, bleeding, or intense pain, timely treatment is key. At Bliss Dental Arts, we offer emergency services designed to ease your discomfort and preserve your smile.

If you need immediate dental attention, don’t wait. Call our office and our experienced team will walk you through your next steps and schedule you for urgent care.

Quick Tips to Prevent Dental Emergencies

• Wear a mouthguard: Especially if you actively play sports or grind your teeth at night.
• Maintain your oral health: Brushing and flossing daily helps prevent decay and gum disease.
• Be mindful of what you eat: Do not chew hard items like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candies.
• Stay consistent with checkups: Regular visits let your dentist catch problems early, before they become urgent.

Conclusion

Emergencies don’t always give you time to think—but knowing what to do can make all the difference. Whether you’re facing a painful toothache, a lost crown, or a dental injury, Bliss Dental Arts is here to help you through it. Reach out to our team for fast, compassionate care that puts your comfort first.

Need help right now? Call us—we’re here to get you smiling again.