A dental emergency rarely happens at a convenient time.
A severe toothache can start overnight. A tooth can break while eating. A fall or sports injury can suddenly knock out a tooth.
When something happens, knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make a difference.
Here is a simple guide to common dental emergencies and when to contact an emergency dentist in Oakville.
First: Is It a Dental Emergency?
You should contact a dentist promptly if you experience:
- Severe or persistent tooth pain
- A broken or badly chipped tooth
- A knocked-out permanent tooth
- Significant swelling around a tooth or gum
- A dental infection or abscess
- A loose permanent tooth following an injury
- A lost filling or crown causing pain or sensitivity
- Bleeding from the mouth that is difficult to control
Not every dental problem requires the same treatment, but waiting can sometimes allow a small problem to become more complicated.
What to Do for a Severe Toothache
Tooth pain is a symptom, not a diagnosis.
It can be related to decay, a crack, inflammation, infection or another problem that needs to be examined.
If you develop significant tooth pain:
- Contact your dentist as soon as possible
- Gently clean the area
- Use an over-the-counter pain medication that is normally safe for you, following the label or your healthcare provider’s instructions
- Use a cold compress on the outside of your face if there is swelling Do not place medication directly against the tooth or gum.
Most importantly, do not rely on pain relief alone. The cause of the pain still needs to be identified.
What to Do If You Break or Chip a Tooth
A chipped or broken tooth should be assessed, particularly if there is pain, bleeding or a large portion of the tooth is missing.
Rinse your mouth gently with water.
If you can find the broken piece, save it and bring it with you to your dental appointment.
A cold compress can also help with swelling while you arrange dental care.
Depending on the extent of the damage, treatment could range from repairing the tooth to more extensive restorative care. The first step is determining how much of the tooth has been affected.
What to Do If a Permanent Tooth Is Knocked Out
This is one dental emergency where acting quickly is especially important. If an adult permanent tooth has been completely knocked out:
- Pick it up by the crown, not the root.
- If it is dirty, rinse it gently without scrubbing it.
- If available, place it in cold milk.
- Contact a dentist immediately.
Do not try to put a knocked-out baby tooth back into the socket.
Time matters with a knocked-out permanent tooth, so seek dental care immediately rather than waiting to see how the area feels.
What If You Lose a Filling or Crown?
A missing filling or crown may leave the underlying tooth sensitive or vulnerable to further damage.
Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and contact your dentist.
Even when there is little or no pain, the tooth should still be assessed so your dentist can determine whether the restoration can be replaced or whether additional treatment is necessary.
What About Facial Swelling?
Swelling around a tooth, gum, jaw or face should not be ignored.
It may be associated with a dental infection that requires professional assessment.
Contact a dentist promptly, especially when swelling is increasing or accompanied by significant pain or fever.
If swelling is affecting your ability to breathe or swallow, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Should I Go to a Dentist or the Emergency Room?
Most problems involving the teeth themselves are best assessed by a dentist because a dentist can diagnose and treat the source of the dental problem.
However, a hospital emergency department may be more appropriate when there is: • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- Serious facial or jaw trauma
- A suspected broken jaw
- A medical emergency associated with the dental problem
Read our guide, When Should You Visit an Emergency Dentist Instead of the ER?, for a more detailed explanation.
Looking for an Emergency Dentist in Oakville?
When your tooth hurts or something suddenly breaks, you should not have to diagnose the problem yourself.
At Smiles by Bis in Oakville, our dental team can assess the cause of your symptoms and explain what treatment may be needed.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact our office as soon as possible so our team can advise you on the appropriate next step and current appointment availability.
Call Smiles by Bis at 905-338-6684.