The Most Common Dental Emergencies and How to Prevent Them
Dental emergencies can be sudden, painful, and disruptive. But knowing the most common emergencies—and how to prevent them—can help you stay prepared and protect your smile. In fact, taking preventative steps can reduce the likelihood of unexpected trips to the dentist, whether it’s for a chipped tooth or a severe toothache. Below are some of the most common dental emergencies with some practical tips to avoid them.
Toothaches
A persistent toothache is one of the most common dental emergencies. It may signal decay, infection, or an issue with a filling. Severe pain, swelling, or fever can indicate an abscess, which requires immediate dental care.
Prevention Tips:
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss regularly.
- Get your regular cleanings and exams to catch issues early.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks that promote tooth decay.
Temporary Relief:
Rinse with warm salt water and take over-the-counter pain medication until you see a dentist.
Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Biting down on hard foods or experiencing facial trauma can cause teeth to chip or crack. Left untreated, cracks can expose nerves, leading to infections and further damage.
Prevention Tips:
- Don’t bite into hard foods (like ice or hard candies).
- If you play contact sports, wear a mouthguard.
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bottles.
What to Do:
Use warm salt water to rinse your mouth. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Save any tooth fragments and get to your dentist immediately.
Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
If your tooth is knocked out, it’s a dental emergency that requires quick action. Acting within 30-60 minutes increases the chance of successfully reimplanting the tooth.
Prevention Tips:
- Always wear a mouthguard for sports or other physical activities.
- Teach children safe play techniques to avoid falls and collisions.
What to Do:
- Pick the tooth up by the crown (not the root).
- Rinse it gently if dirty, but do not scrub.
- Place the tooth back in the socket if you can. If not, put it in milk or a saline solution.
- Get to your dentist immediately.
Lost or Broken Fillings and Crowns
Over time, fillings and crowns can get loose or break, causing discomfort and pain. If this happens, you want to get treatment immediately because delays can result in further damage or infections.
Prevention Tips:
- Avoid sticky or hard foods that can loosen dental work.
- Schedule routine dental exams to ensure crowns and fillings remain intact.
What to Do:
In some instances, you can use dental cement to temporarily cover the area and relieve sensitivity. When you schedule a meeting with your dentist, ask them if they recommend temporary dental cement.
Abscessed Tooth
A tooth gets abscessed when there is a severe infection at its root or in the surrounding gum. Abscessed teeth are intensely pain. They usually swell. In severe cases, they can cause fever and systemic infection if left untreated.
Prevention Tips:
- Keep your regular dental checkups so that the dentist can detect and treat infections early.
- Practice good daily oral hygiene to prevent cavities and gum disease.
What to Do:
Rinse with salt water and take pain medication. It’s very important to get emergency dental care as soon as possible if you think you have an abscessed tooth.
Soft Tissue Injuries (Tongue, Cheeks, Gums)
No one likes biting their tongue or cheek; it can be shocking and painful and cause bleeding. If you have braces, they can sometimes irritate and or cut your cheeks.
Prevention Tips:
- Be cautious while eating and chewing.
- Use a mouthguard while playing contact sports.
- Get your braces looked at by your dentist or orthodontist.
What to Do:
Use warm saltwater to rinse your mouth. Use ice or a cold compress to reduce or minimize any swelling. If the bleeding persists, call your dentist.
While not all dental emergencies are avoidable, practicing good oral hygiene, using protective gear, and avoiding harmful habits can significantly reduce the risks. Visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings also helps to catch small issues before they escalate into emergencies. If a dental emergency occurs, knowing what to do—and acting quickly—can make a huge difference.
Need Help with a Dental Emergency?
If you or your child experiences a dental emergency, contact our office immediately. We offer same-day emergency appointments and walk-ins.
Our team is here to answer any questions you have. You can also schedule an APPOINTMENT or a FREE CONSULTATION with one of our top Chicago dentists: Schedule online or Call us at 773-481-2200