Common Dental Emergencies and How to Treat Them

Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly, whether you’re enjoying a meal, playing sports, or simply going about your daily routine. Knowing how to handle these situations can make the difference between saving a tooth and losing it. Prompt action can also relieve pain and prevent infections from spreading. In this guide, we’ll cover the most common dental emergencies and how to treat them until you can see a professional.

Whether you’re dealing with a chipped tooth, severe toothache, or knocked-out tooth, it’s crucial to seek help from an emergency dentist in West Kelowna as soon as possible. These types of dental issues often require immediate attention to prevent complications or permanent damage.

1. Severe Toothache

Toothaches are one of the most common dental complaints. While mild discomfort may result from something stuck between your teeth, a severe, persistent toothache often indicates a deeper problem like an infection or tooth decay.

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.

• Gently use dental floss to remove any debris stuck between teeth.

• Apply a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling.

• Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gum—it can cause irritation.

Visit a dentist as soon as possible to determine the cause and begin appropriate treatment, which may include a filling, root canal, or extraction.

2. Knocked-Out Tooth

Having a tooth completely knocked out can be traumatic, but if you act quickly, there's a chance it can be saved.

What to do:

• Handle the tooth by the crown (top), not the root.

• Rinse it gently with water if dirty—do not scrub.

• Try to place the tooth back in the socket if possible.

• If you can’t reinsert it, place it in a container of milk or saline.

Time is critical here. Get to an emergency dentist near you within 30 to 60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

3. Chipped or Broken Tooth

Chipped or fractured teeth can result from biting down on hard food, sports injuries, or falls. While small chips may not cause immediate pain, larger breaks can expose nerves, leading to sensitivity or severe pain.

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.

• Use gauze to stop any bleeding.

• Apply a cold compress on the outside of your face to reduce swelling.

• Save any broken pieces if you have them.

Make an appointment with a dental clinic near you to assess the extent of damage and explore treatment options such as bonding, crowns, or veneers.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

Losing a filling or crown can be uncomfortable and leave your tooth vulnerable to damage or decay.

What to do:

• If a crown falls out, try to slip it back over the tooth and secure it with dental cement or toothpaste until you can see your dentist.

• Avoid chewing on the affected side.

It’s important to replace or reattach a crown quickly to prevent further damage to the exposed tooth structure.

5. Abscess or Swelling

A dental abscess is a serious infection that can form at the root of a tooth or in the gums. This condition is often very painful and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution to help draw out pus.

• Avoid applying heat, which can worsen the infection.

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers, but do not delay treatment.

Seek emergency care immediately. An abscess typically requires antibiotics, drainage, and potentially a root canal or extraction.

6. Soft Tissue Injuries (Lips, Tongue, or Gums)

Injuries to the soft tissues inside your mouth—such as cuts or bites on your lips, tongue, or gums—can bleed significantly and cause discomfort.

What to do:

• Rinse your mouth with salt water.

• Apply a clean gauze pad to the bleeding area.

• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and stop the bleeding.

If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure, seek emergency dental or medical care right away.

7. Objects Stuck Between Teeth

Food particles or other foreign objects stuck between teeth can lead to discomfort and even infections if not properly removed.

What to do:

• Try using dental floss or an interdental brush.

• Never use sharp objects like pins or knives—this can damage your gums or enamel.

If you’re unable to remove the object, visit your dentist to safely address the issue without causing harm to your teeth or gums.

Conclusion

Dental emergencies can be painful and stressful, but knowing how to respond can significantly improve outcomes. From toothaches to traumatic injuries, the key is to act quickly, stay calm, and seek professional help. If you’re in the area, trust the experienced team at Westbank Dental Care & Implant Center, a leading dental clinic in West Kelowna. We’re committed to providing fast, compassionate, and effective emergency dental care when you need it most.

Whether you’re experiencing pain, injury, or unexpected dental issues, our skilled professionals are ready to help restore your comfort and protect your smile. Don't wait—get the relief and care you deserve from a team that puts your health first.