What to do in a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly, causing discomfort and anxiety. Knowing how to identify and respond to such situations is crucial for maintaining oral health and alleviating pain. At Wayside Dental Practice, we’ll always prioritise your well-being and aim to provide guidance on managing dental emergencies effectively.

Common Types of Dental Emergencies

It may seem like common sense but being forewarned and understanding what constitutes a dental emergency can help you take appropriate action promptly. A bit like insurance, you hope you’ll never have to use it but it’s nice to know it’s there. Common dental emergencies include:

• Severe Toothache: Intense, persistent pain that is unresponsive to over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Chipped or Broken Tooth: Damage resulting from trauma or biting hard objects.
• Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth): Complete displacement of a tooth from its socket due to injury.
• Loose or Dislodged Tooth: Teeth that have become loose or moved out of position following an impact.
• Dental Abscess: A localised infection leading to a pocket of pus, causing swelling and pain.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Dislodgement of restorations, exposing sensitive tooth structures.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Lacerations or tears to the gums, cheeks, tongue, or lips.

Immediate Steps to Take

In the event of a dental emergency, taking swift action can significantly impact the outcome. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. Severe Toothache:
   • Gently floss or use an interdental brush to remove any debris that might be causing irritation.
   • Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
   • Take paracetamol or ibuprofen.
   • Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums, as this can cause tissue damage.
2. Chipped or Broken Tooth:
   • Rub toothpaste into the cut/broken surface.
   • If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze until it stops. If severe, contact your dentist or call 111.
   • Save any broken pieces and keep them moist in milk or saline solution.
   • Apply a cold compress to minimise swelling.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth:
   • Handle the tooth by the crown (top part), avoiding the root.
   • Rinse the tooth gently with water if dirty, without scrubbing.
   • If possible, reposition the tooth in its socket and hold it in place.
   • If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in milk or a saline solution.
   • Seek dental attention immediately, as timely intervention increases the chances of saving the tooth.
4. Dental Abscess:
   • Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution to alleviate discomfort and draw out pus.
   • Avoid applying heat to the area, as it can exacerbate swelling.
   • Contact your dentist promptly for evaluation and treatment.
5. Lost Filling or Crown:
   • Keep the affected area clean by rinsing with warm water.
   • Schedule an appointment with your dentist to have the restoration properly reattached or replaced.

When to Contact Your Dentist

It’s essential to recognise when professional dental care is necessary. You should contact your dentist immediately if:

• You experience severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter painkillers.
• There’s significant swelling in your mouth or facial area.
• You have a knocked-out tooth.
• There’s uncontrolled bleeding following a dental injury.
• You notice signs of infection, such as fever, tenderness, or pus discharge.

Preventive Measures

While not all emergencies can be anticipated, certain precautions can reduce the risk:

• Maintain regular dental check-ups to identify and address potential issues early.
• Use mouthguards during sports or recreational activities to protect your teeth from trauma.
• Avoid chewing hard substances like ice, toffee, or hard sweets that can crack teeth.
• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing regularly to prevent decay and gum disease.

We are always on hand to see you if you have a problem and we cover our own patient emergencies. If you have an out of hours emergency, please follow the instructions on our answerphone to be put through to our on-call dentist.

If you need an emergency dentist in Harpenden, St Albans or anywhere in Hertfordshire then at Wayside Dental we’re committed to providing prompt and effective care during dental emergencies. If you or a loved one encounters an urgent dental issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. Your oral health and comfort are our top priorities.