Have A Dental Emergency? Here’s What To Do

When you have a dental emergency, it’s important to act fast but carefully. The goal is to get to an emergency dentist as soon as possible - however, there are certain steps you can take in the meantime. Reading this article will equip you with the right information about pain management, bleeding, and injury.

While some dental issues are pressing, not every situation is urgent. Some of the most common problems that are considered as a dental emergency include:

• Cracked or chipped tooth with pain

• Knocked-out tooth

• Loose teeth

• Abscessed tooth (infection)

• Severe pain or bleeding

Here’s what to do if you have a dental emergency in NW Calgary, Alberta.

Stay calm

It might be easier said than done, especially if you’re dealing with a tooth knocked completely out of its socket, severe bleeding, and intense pain. Pause and take a few deep breaths - this will help you react carefully and help you save a tooth or avoid further unintentional damage.

Get the help of a friend or family member to transport you to the dentist’s office. Driving while in pain or while experiencing some anxiety and fear can be dangerous and put you at risk of an accident.

Act quickly with a knocked-out tooth

The sooner you act, the better your chances of saving your natural tooth. Gently pick the tooth up by the crown (the chewing surface) and rinse with water. If you can, place the tooth back into the socket. If this is not possible, put the tooth in a cup of milk and seek emergency dental care as soon as possible.

Use ice to alleviate pain and swelling

Severe pain is not normal and if it comes suddenly, warrants a quick visit to the dentist.  While it can be tempting,  avoid taking aspirin or applying a numbing gel as it can cause more issues and irritate the gums further. 

Use a cold compress and press it to the outside of your cheek where the pain is. This will relieve the pain and swelling temporarily until you can seek emergency dental care. Never ignore a toothache - it can be a sign of an underlying condition or infection. 

Bleeding that won’t stop

Bleeding may be caused by a mouth injury or after dental surgery. While some bleeding may occur after a tooth extraction or other dental treatment, excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop or slow down after a few hours is not normal.

Place a piece of gauze where the bleeding is happening, between the inside of the cheek and the gums or hold it in place with your tongue to add some pressure as you head to your dentist.

If you’re unsure whether your situation is a dental emergency, give us a call and we’ll be happy to help. Your best bet is to seek care as soon as possible.