What to Do in a Dental Emergency

March 14, 2025

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, causing pain, discomfort, and stress. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, a severe toothache, or a broken dental appliance, knowing how to respond quickly can make all the difference in preserving your oral health. Here’s what to do in common dental emergencies.

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

If a permanent tooth gets knocked out, act fast! Pick up the tooth by the crown (top part), avoiding the root. If possible, gently rinse it with water and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva and see a dentist immediately—time is critical for saving the tooth.

2. Severe Toothache

Tooth pain can signal an infection or other serious issues. Rinse your mouth with warm water and floss gently to remove any trapped food. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, as it can cause irritation. If the pain persists or worsens, contact your dentist as soon as possible.

3. Chipped or Broken Tooth

If you break or chip a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Save any broken pieces if possible and bring them to your dentist. Depending on the severity, a dental filling, bonding, or crown may be needed to restore the tooth.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable. If a crown falls off, try to place it back over the tooth using temporary dental cement (available at drugstores). Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth and schedule a dental visit promptly to prevent further damage.

5. Soft Tissue Injuries (Gums, Tongue, or Lips)

Bleeding from cuts to the gums, tongue, or lips can be alarming. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply gentle pressure with gauze or a clean cloth to stop bleeding. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10–15 minutes, seek emergency dental or medical care.

Call Us for Emergency Dental Care

A dental emergency can be painful and stressful, but quick action and professional care can prevent further complications. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we offer prompt emergency dental services to get you relief fast. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait—contact us today to schedule an urgent appointment!

Dr. Sherif Gabr

Dr. Sherif Gabr, DDS

Hello there! I am Sherif Gabr, and I will be your dentist at Modern Dentistry of New England. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we take pride in making everyone in our practice feel welcomed, valued and respected. When you become a patient at Modern Dentistry of New England, you are not joining a dental practice but also becoming part of our extended family.

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