Our office is experienced in managing dental emergencies — call us first and we will guide you and reserve time as quickly as possible. Meanwhile, here’s what to do for the most common situations.
Knocked-out adult tooth
This is the true minutes-count emergency. Pick the tooth up by the crown — never the root. If it’s dirty, rinse it briefly with milk or saline; do not scrub. If you can, place it gently back in its socket and bite on gauze. If not, keep it in a cup of cold milk (not water, not dry) and get to us within 30–60 minutes. A knocked-out baby tooth should not be re-inserted — call us instead.
Severe toothache
Rinse with warm salt water and floss gently to dislodge any trapped food. Take over-the-counter pain relief as directed — but never place aspirin against the gum; it burns the tissue. A cold compress on the cheek helps swelling. Swelling that spreads to your eye or neck, or trouble swallowing or breathing, is a medical emergency: go to the ER.
Chipped or broken tooth
Save any pieces, rinse your mouth with warm water, and cover any sharp edge with dental wax or sugar-free gum. Even a painless chip should be checked — a small repair now can prevent a root canal later.
Lost filling or crown
Keep the crown if you have it. Temporary dental cement from any pharmacy can protect the tooth for a day or two until we can see you. Avoid chewing on that side.