The best way to handle any emergency is to be prepared. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies and tips on how to handle them until you can see one of our emergency dentists:

Severe Toothache

Intense and persistent toothaches could indicate an underlying issue, like dental infections or dental decay, that needs immediate assessment and treatment. Rinse with warm water, gently floss around the area, and use a cold compress to alleviate discomfort. Do not place aspirin directly on your gum tissue, as this can cause severe burns. Once you can see your Houston emergency dentist, they may recommend an emergency treatment such as root canal treatment or tooth extraction to alleviate the pain.

Trauma or Injury

Accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries can cause chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth. Handle a knocked-out tooth by the crown so you don’t disturb any remaining organic material in the root, and attempt to reinsert it into the tooth socket if possible. 

For chipped or broken teeth, rinse your mouth with a mild salt water solution and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

Lost Filling or Crown

A lost dental filling or dental crown can expose sensitive tooth tissue, requiring prompt attention to prevent further damage. Save the filling or crown, gently clean the tooth, and temporarily cover the area.

Abscess or Infection

Infections, often indicated by swelling, pain, or pus, can lead to severe complications if not addressed immediately. Rinse your mouth, use a cold compress, and take over-the-counter pain relievers to help alleviate discomfort.

Bleeding Gums or Oral Tissues

Uncontrolled bleeding from gums or other soft tissues could indicate trauma or advanced periodontal disease. Gently rinse your mouth, apply pressure to the area, and seek emergency care if the bleeding continues.

Object Stuck Between Teeth

An object stuck between your teeth can be uncomfortable and concerning. This dental emergency can cause irritation, pain, and potential damage to the surrounding teeth and gums. To handle this situation until you can see a dentist, try rinsing your mouth with warm water to dislodge the object. Gently use dental floss to try and dislodge the object and avoid using sharp objects that could worsen the situation. If you’re unable to remove the object or experience severe pain, it’s essential to seek immediate dental care.

Broken Jaw

A broken jaw is a severe dental emergency characterized by pain, swelling, and potential deformities around the mouth and jaw. To manage it, stabilize the jaw with a bandage, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and manage pain with over-the-counter medications. Maintain a soft diet, and seek immediate medical attention to prevent further injury.

Orthodontic Issues

Problems with braces or other orthodontic appliances can cause significant discomfort or injury to the mouth. Address protruding or broken wire by covering it with orthodontic wax and save any loose parts, then seek advice promptly for pain or injury caused by orthodontic appliances like broken braces.