How to Handle Common Dental Emergencies Until You Reach Our Office

Dental emergencies can become serious and painful quickly without proper care. Know what to do if you experience an urgent issue with your oral health, such as a knocked-out tooth or tooth abscess. Proper self-care can provide comfort and may improve the effectiveness of your treatment.

Here at Me Dental Spa, Denis Mustedanagic, DMD, suggests the following steps for common dental emergencies. Of course, one of your first actions should be to call our office immediately to schedule an immediate appointment.

Here’s how to manage common dental emergencies before you see us.

When you have a toothache…

Toothaches can be excruciating due to the sensitivity of the nerves surrounding your teeth. While you wait for a diagnosis and treatment, take these steps to ease the pain:

1. Rinse the inside of your mouth with warm salt water for a few seconds
2. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek
3. Floss around the affected tooth to remove any debris
4. Take over-the-counter pain relief, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen

The saltwater rinse consists of about ½ teaspoon of salt in warm water. Do not swallow it.

When you have a knocked-out tooth…

If a tooth is knocked out in an accident or sports injury, plan to get dental care as soon as possible. If you can, locate the tooth, rinse it with warm water, and gently place it back into the socket. Bite down on a piece of gauze or a tea bag to hold it in place.

If you can’t reinsert the tooth, store it in your cheek, a jar of milk, or an emergency tooth preservation kit until you can reach our office. Apply an ice pack to your cheek or jaw to ease severe pain. If you get care early enough, we may be able to reattach the tooth.

For a broken tooth, follow similar steps. You’ll rinse your mouth, preserve broken tooth pieces, and bring them to your appointment.

When you have a tooth abscess…

You might have a tooth abscess if you’re experiencing throbbing pain that isn’t linked to an injury. This bacterial infection can lead to fever, tooth sensitivity, and bad breath as it worsens.

Until you can see us, follow the general toothache care steps: rinse with warm salt water, use a cold compress on your cheek, and take over-the-counter pain medication.

Treatment once you arrive

Whenever possible, Me Dental Spa offers same-day appointments to address dental emergencies. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of a full recovery.

Treatment may involve replanting or stabilizing a dislodged tooth, removing damaged tissue, prescribing antibiotics to fight infection, and more. Our goal is to promote healing, preserve your teeth and gums, and prevent further complications. We want your smile to be healthy and bright.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to call our office or send us a message through our website. We’re here to help.