Dental emergencies can strike anytime and often need quick action to stop further damage and ease pain. Knowing how to act during a dental emergency can affect the outcome. At Northlane Dental, we show our patients what to do right away while they wait for expert care.
1. Keep Cool and Check the Problem
The first thing to do in any dental emergency is to keep cool. Look at the problem —figure out if it’s a big issue, like a tooth that’s fallen out or heavy bleeding, or something less urgent, like a mild toothache. Staying calm helps you act fast and well.
2. Stop Bleeding
When you notice blood coming from a tooth or gums, rinse your mouth with warm water. Put a clean gauze or cloth on the area that’s bleeding and press it down for 10–15 minutes. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, get emergency help right away.
3. Know What to Do with a Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth needs quick action:
- Grab it by the crown (the top part) staying away from the root.
- If it’s dirty, give it a gentle rinse with water—skip the soap and don’t scrub.
- Try to put it back in the socket if you can, or keep it in milk or a tooth preservation solution.
- See an emergency dentist right away within 30 minutes to have the best shot at saving the tooth.
4. Handle Pain and Swelling
When you have toothaches, fractures, or injuries, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help ease discomfort. You can reduce swelling by putting a cold compress on the outside of your cheek. Don’t put aspirin on your gums or tooth, as this might cause irritation.
5. Protect Broken or Chipped Teeth
Save any pieces if a tooth chips or breaks. Rinse your mouth with warm water. Cover any sharp edges with sugarless gum or dental wax for now. This stops your tongue or cheeks from getting cut until you see a dentist.
6. Get Help from a Pro Right Away
Call a dentist even if the pain isn’t bad. Northlane Dental offers quick emergency care. They check the damage and do what’s needed to fix your smile and keep your mouth healthy. Fast treatment stops more problems and saves your teeth.
Final Thoughts
Dental emergencies need quick action to limit damage and ease pain. If you stay cool stop bleeding, shield teeth, and get professional help, you can handle these crises well. At Northlane Dental, our staff stands ready to give skilled emergency dental care making sure your teeth and gums get fast safe treatment.