Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them. One moment you’re enjoying lunch, and the next, you’ve chipped a tooth or bitten down on something too hard. Whether it’s a sharp toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a sudden swelling, knowing what to do straight away can make all the difference.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common dental emergencies and how to handle them quickly and safely—before you get to the dentist.

🚨 What Counts as a Dental Emergency?

Not every toothache is a crisis, but some situations require urgent care. Dental emergencies are issues that involve severe pain, bleeding, swelling, or a risk of permanent tooth damage.

Here are a few examples:

• A tooth that’s been knocked out

• A cracked or broken tooth causing pain

• Sudden, severe toothache

• Swelling in the mouth or jaw

• A lost filling or crown

• Injuries to the gums or lips

If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to contact your dentist. They can help decide whether you need emergency treatment or if it can wait.

🦷 1. Knocked-Out Tooth: Act Fast to Save It

This is one of the most serious dental emergencies. The good news? If you act quickly, there’s a chance to save the tooth.

What to Do Immediately:

1. Pick it up by the crown, not the root.

2. Rinse it gently with milk or saline. Do not scrub or use soap.

3. If possible, place it back in the socket and hold it there.

4. If you can’t reinsert it, store the tooth in milk, saline solution, or inside your cheek.

Time is crucial. Try to see a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

🪥 2. Sudden Toothache: Find the Cause

A toothache can be more than just a nuisance. It may signal decay, infection, or even an abscess.

Steps You Can Take:

• Rinse with warm salt water to clean the area

• Floss gently to remove anything stuck between teeth

• Take paracetamol, not aspirin (aspirin can cause bleeding)

• Use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling

Avoid placing painkillers directly on the gum—they can burn the tissue. Toothaches are common dental emergencies and shouldn’t be ignored, especially if the pain lingers or worsens.

🧱 3. Lost Filling or Crown: Temporary Fixes Until You’re Seen

A filling or crown falling out might not seem urgent, but it can cause discomfort and lead to further damage.

Here’s What to Do:

• Clean the area gently with a soft toothbrush

• Cover sharp edges with dental wax (available from most chemists)

• If you still have the crown, try placing it back using dental cement or toothpaste (temporary only!)

This counts as one of the more common dental emergencies. Even if there’s no pain, book a visit as soon as you can. Exposed areas can decay quickly.

🩸 4. Bleeding Gums or Soft Tissue Injuries

Bleeding that doesn’t stop could mean something more serious. It’s not just from brushing too hard—especially if there’s swelling or pain involved.

Steps to Take:

• Rinse with warm salt water

• Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze or a cloth

• Use an ice pack on the outside of the mouth to ease swelling

If bleeding continues for more than 10–15 minutes, head to the emergency room or contact your dentist immediately. These types of dental emergencies might involve deep tissue injury or infection.

😬 5. Broken or Chipped Teeth

A small chip might not be urgent. But if it causes pain, exposes nerves, or bleeds, you need to act quickly.

First Steps:

• Rinse your mouth to remove debris

• Save any pieces you can and bring them with you

• Use dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover sharp edges

• Apply a cold compress if there’s swelling

Even minor chips can become major if ignored. It’s always best to let your dentist take a look.

😷 6. Swollen Jaw or Abscess: Take This Seriously

If your jaw swells or you feel pressure in your gums, it could be an abscess—an infection that forms a pocket of pus near the tooth root or gum.

Warning Signs:

• Constant, throbbing pain

• Swelling in the face or jaw

• Fever or a bad taste in your mouth

What You Should Do:

• Rinse with warm salt water

• Take pain relief as directed

• Call your dentist right away

Abscesses are among the more dangerous dental emergencies because the infection can spread to other parts of your body if left untreated.

🛑 What Not to Do in a Dental Emergency

When you’re in pain or panic, it’s easy to make quick decisions. However, some actions can cause more harm than good.

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Don’t use sharp objects to try to remove food

• Don’t apply heat (use cold compresses only)

• Don’t delay getting help

If you’re unsure whether your situation is a true emergency, it’s always safer to contact your dentist. Many clinics have an emergency line or after-hours support.

💬 How to Prepare for Dental Emergencies at Home

You can’t predict an emergency, but you can be ready.

Make a dental first-aid kit with:

• Salt for rinses

• Dental wax and temporary filling material

• Gauze and gloves

• A small container for storing a knocked-out tooth

• Pain relievers (like paracetamol)

Keep your dentist’s contact details somewhere easy to find, and know where the nearest 24-hour dental service is located.

Preparedness is key. When dental emergencies strike, being calm and ready can make all the difference.

✅  Quick Action Can Save Your Smile

Nobody likes dealing with a dental crisis. But knowing what to do—whether it’s handling a lost filling or saving a knocked-out tooth—can protect your health and your smile.

Dental emergencies are never convenient, but with the right response, you can ease pain, prevent complications, and get the care you need faster.

Keep this guide handy, stay calm under pressure, and remember—your dentist is there to help.