What Are the Common Dental Emergencies?

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. However, even with proper care, dental emergencies can still happen to anyone at any time. Knowing what to do during a dental emergency can make a huge difference in saving a tooth, reducing pain, and preventing future complications. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies we see at Cure Dental and what you can do if you’re experiencing one.

Chipped or Cracked Teeth

Chipped or cracked teeth are common dental emergencies, especially among active children and adults who play sport or engage in high-impact activities. A chipped tooth may not always cause pain, but it can lead to discomfort and sensitivity. In some cases, a crack in the tooth may be invisible, but can cause pain when biting or chewing.

If you have a chipped or cracked tooth, try to save any broken pieces and rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and relieve pain. It’s important to see our dentist as soon as possible, as a chipped or cracked tooth can lead to further damage or infection.

Painful Toothaches or Abscesses

Toothaches can be incredibly painful and disruptive to daily life. Various factors may cause them, such as cavities, gum disease, or traumatic injuries to your tooth. In some cases, a visible abscess may accompany a toothache. If you have a toothache, try flossing gently to remove any food particles and apply a cold compress to that side of your mouth.

An over-the-counter pain relief medication may also be helpful until we can see you for an exam. However, it’s crucial to see a dentist promptly, as a toothache or abscess indicates an underlying dental issue.

Tooth Erosion

Eroded enamel can cause sensitivity and pain. Tooth erosion is usually caused by acidic foods and drinks, poor oral hygiene, or the early stages of tooth decay. A desensitising treatment usually offers fast relief.

Sensitivity of Tooth

Tooth sensitivity can be bothersome, even if it’s not as painful as a chronic toothache. Depending on the type of sensitivity you’re experiencing, the cause may be due to a cracked tooth, cavity or even gum disease. A short evaluation will provide you with the answers you need.

Halitosis or Bad Breath

Sudden or chronic bad breath is often linked to conditions like gum disease, an infected tooth, or even gastrointestinal disorders. If symptoms do not improve with brushing or flossing, please let us know.

Broken Fillings, Crowns or Dental Work

Restorations like fillings, crowns or other dental work can sometimes break or come loose over time, especially if new areas of decay develop around them. If you experience a broken filling or crown falling off, contact our dentist immediately. Avoid biting down on that side of your mouth, as this can cause further damage.

Similarly, broken or cracked dentures often require prompt attention. Do not attempt to repair the denture yourself, as it could permanently damage the acrylic or metal base.

Knocked-Out Teeth

A knocked-out tooth requires immediate attention. If a tooth is completely knocked out, try to find the tooth and only handle it by the crown; do not touch the root. Place the tooth in a cup of milk or saline, and bring it to our office immediately. If we see you quickly enough, it may be possible to reimplant the tooth.

Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.