Oops! Here’s What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Accidents happen to the best of us, and sometimes, they involve our teeth! Dental emergencies can strike when you least expect them - a broken tooth during dinner, sudden pain, or a lost filling can all send us scrambling for help. But don't worry! Knowing what to do when a dental emergency strikes can make all the difference.

Here's a quick guide on handling common dental mishaps and if you do suffer an accident, be sure to contact us straight away. 

A cracked or broken tooth

If you crack or break a tooth, it's important to act quickly. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and gently press a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling. If there's pain, take over-the-counter pain relief, but avoid using anything directly on the tooth. If you have the broken piece, wrap it in clean gauze and keep it safe. Call us on 0208 977 3746 as soon as possible – our Church Road dentists will assess the damage and recommend the best treatment, whether it’s bonding, a crown, or another solution.

Knocked-out tooth

A knocked-out tooth might sound like a nightmare, but with quick action, it's sometimes possible to save it. If the tooth is whole, pick it up by the crown (the white part) and avoid touching the root. Rinse it gently with water - no scrubbing! - to remove any dirt. If possible, try to place the tooth back in its socket and gently bite down on a clean cloth. If you can't do that, put the tooth in a container of milk or a saline solution (like a small amount of saltwater). Then, get to Church Road Dental Care Centre within an hour for the best chance of saving the tooth.

Sudden, severe toothache

Toothaches can strike out of nowhere, and they're often more than just a little uncomfortable. If you have sudden, intense pain, start by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater to soothe the area and reduce bacteria. Gently floss around the tooth to make sure nothing is stuck that could be causing irritation. Avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums (a common myth!), as it can burn the tissue. If the pain persists or worsens, call us straight away on 0208 977 3746 Severe tooth pain could be a sign of an infection or decay, and you’ll want it looked at right away to prevent further issues.

Lost filling or crown

Fillings and crowns can occasionally come loose, especially if they're older. If you lose a filling, try to keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side. A piece of sugar-free gum can temporarily cover the gap and help prevent sensitivity. For a loose crown, you can use a little dental adhesive (available in most pharmacies) to hold it in place temporarily until you can see our Church Road dentists. Avoid using household glue - only dental adhesives are safe in your mouth. Reach out to our dentists in Teddington to have the filling or crown replaced as soon as possible.

Bitten lip or tongue

Ouch! If you accidentally bite your lip or tongue, clean the area with a saltwater rinse and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Applying a little pressure with clean gauze should help stop any bleeding. If the bite is deep or doesn't stop bleeding, it's a good idea to seek medical help or visit your dentist for a closer look.

Object stuck between teeth

When something gets lodged between your teeth, resist the urge to use sharp objects to remove it - they can damage your gums or teeth. Instead, try gently using dental floss to work it out. If that doesn't help, your Church Road dentist can assist without risking injury to your gums or teeth.

Remember, we´re here to help!

Dental emergencies can be stressful, but knowing what to do can make a huge difference. Remember to keep calm, and don't hesitate to contact Church Road Dental Care Centre in any emergency. We're just a call away, ready to get you back to feeling comfortable and smiling confidently!