Dental emergencies can happen suddenly, often when you least expect them. Whether it’s a broken tooth, severe pain, or an injury, knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make a big difference. Quick action can reduce pain, protect your teeth, and help you avoid further damage.
In this article, we explain the most common dental emergencies and give step-by-step advice on what you should do before seeing a professional.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any sudden problem in your mouth that causes pain, bleeding, swelling, or damage to teeth, gums, or the jaw. These problems often need urgent treatment to stop the pain and prevent long-term harm.
Common signs of a dental emergency:
- Sharp or ongoing toothache
- Cracked, chipped, or knocked-out tooth
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Swelling of the face or jaw
- Infection or abscess with pus
- Injury to the lips, tongue, or gums
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to contact an emergency dentist to explain your symptoms and ask for advice.
- Severe Toothache
A bad toothache may be caused by infection, decay, or a damaged nerve. The pain can be constant, throbbing, or sharp.
What to do first:
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water
- Use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling
- Take pain relief as advised
- Avoid eating on the sore side
- Call a dentist right away
Ignoring the pain can lead to an infection or tooth loss, so don’t delay.
- Knocked-Out Tooth
This is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. Fast action gives the best chance to save the tooth.
What to do first:
- Pick up the tooth by the top (not the root)
- Rinse it gently with water if dirty (do not scrub)
- Try to place it back in the socket
- If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva
- Get to a dentist within 30–60 minutes
Use your phone to find an emergency dentist near me for the fastest care.
- Cracked or Broken Tooth
Cracked teeth can cause pain, sharp edges, and increase the risk of infection.
What to do first:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water
- Save any pieces of the tooth if possible
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Avoid biting down on that side
- Call a dental clinic for urgent advice
- Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown falls out, the exposed tooth can be sensitive or painful.
What to do first:
- Keep the crown or filling safe if you can
- Avoid eating hard or sticky foods
- Use dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover the area
- Book a visit with your dentist as soon as possible
- Dental Abscess or Swelling
An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by infection. It can lead to swelling, fever, and severe pain.
What to do first:
- Rinse with warm salt water to ease discomfort
- Do not press or pop the swollen area
- Take pain relief if needed
- Get urgent dental treatment — this is not a problem to ignore
A trusted dental clinic near me can provide antibiotics and drainage if needed.
- Injury to Lips, Gums, or Tongue
Biting or injuring soft tissue can cause bleeding or discomfort.
What to do first:
- Clean the area gently with water
- Apply pressure with clean gauze to stop bleeding
- Use a cold compress for swelling
- If bleeding doesn’t stop in 15 minutes, seek dental care
When to Call for Emergency Help
Some problems can wait a day or two, others need same-day treatment. If you’re ever in doubt, call a dental clinic and explain what’s happened.
Seek help immediately if:
- You’re in severe or ongoing pain
- You have swelling in the face or gums
- A tooth has been knocked out
- You have signs of infection (fever, pus, bad taste)
- You feel unwell due to dental pain
Why Choose Albany Creek Dental for Emergency Care?
At Albany Creek Dental, we provide fast, gentle, and professional treatment for all types of dental emergencies. Whether it’s pain, trauma, or infection, we’re here to help when you need us most.
Why patients trust us:
- Same-day emergency appointments (when available)
- Experienced and caring team
- Modern equipment and calming clinic environment
- Personalised care for children and adults
- Clear advice and support after treatment
We’re proud to support the community with quick and effective dental care during urgent situations.
Quick Action Protects Your Teeth
Knowing what to do during a dental emergency can make all the difference. Stay calm, act fast, and contact a dentist near me for help. Early treatment often means less pain, fewer complications, and better outcomes.
FAQs About Dental Emergencies
- What is the most urgent type of dental emergency?
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most time-sensitive. Getting to a clinic within 30–60 minutes gives the best chance of saving it.
- Can I treat a severe toothache at home?
You can rinse with salt water and take pain relief, but professional care is still needed to fix the cause and avoid further damage.
- Should I go to the hospital for a dental injury?
Go to hospital only if there is severe facial trauma, difficulty breathing, or bleeding that won’t stop. For tooth pain or injury, contact a dental clinic directly.
