What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?

If you think that dental emergencies only are things like broken teeth, you may be surprised at how broad this category really is. As a rule, any oral health problem that is causing you serious pain or bleeding and that you can’t treat on your own qualifies as a dental emergency. Let’s look at a few common dental emergencies now:

1. You Broke or Chipped Your Tooth.

This is a very painful emergency, so you should call the dentist immediately. In the meantime, rinse out your mouth with warm water, and keep the tooth if possible. Also, try to put an ice pack on it in transit to the dentist.

2. You Knocked a Tooth Loose.

So your tooth is loose but did not fall out. That's good news (even though it hurts). The dentist might be able to help you save that tooth. Take some over-the-counter pain killers, put ice on it, and get to the dentist as soon as possible.

3. Broke or Lost Your Crown or Filling.

This is no fun at all… But don’t worry you will be okay. For now, your tooth will be very sensitive to anything that comes into your mouth, including air. Using clove oil will soothe the sensitivity, as will using dental cement from the local drug store. Getting to the dentist as soon as possible is recommended since you are likely in pain.

4. Sudden Painful Toothache.

Toothaches can be caused by a variety of problems. The first thing you should do is rinse your mouth with warm water then try gently flossing around the tooth to remove any food. If the problem persists you’re going to need to take a trip to the dentist.

5. Something is Lodged Between Your Teeth.

When something gets caught between your teeth, it can be painful and even lead to infection. You need to get it out right away! First, use floss. If that hurts too much, try something like Soft Picks. If all else fails, you’re going to want to call a dentist.

6. Sudden Swelling in Your Mouth.

This could happen for a number of reasons and could be quite serious. You may have an abscess. Abscessed teeth are serious business. The infection can spread quickly, and since your mouth is right next to your brain, you’re playing with fire here. In this case, you really have no other choice but to get to the dentist as soon as possible.

7. You Broke Your Braces.

Braces have many moving parts which can break. If they break, call an orthodontist right away. If a wire breaks, move it to somewhere that isn’t poking you. If you can’t move it, cover it with some orthodontic wax until you can see the orthodontist. If a band is loosening, save it and schedule an appointment with an orthodontist for it to be replaced or re-cemented.

8. You Bit Your Cheek or Tongue.

This happens all the time when you’re eating, chewing gum, or just not paying attention. Rinse your mouth with some saltwater, then use a piece of gauze to put pressure on the wound. If you can’t stop the bleeding and a dentist is unavailable, you should go to the ER.

9. Injured Your Jaw

This is no fun. If you injure or break your jaw, the only thing you can do is get in touch with an emergency dentist. If you are unable to find a dentist who can help you, you should head to the ER.

10. Wisdom Teeth Become Inflamed

Wisdom teeth are complicated. They seem to come on their own terms, and when they do, they can wreak absolute havoc. Pericoronitis is an infection that can occur as a result of wisdom teeth not coming in properly. You should seek an emergency dentist as soon as possible if your wisdom teeth are giving you trouble.