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What to Do During a Dental Emergency

Posted on 2/15/2025 by Stansell Dentistry Associates

A dentist and assistant examining a female patient in a clinic, assessing symptoms of TMJ disorder.

A dental emergency is a sudden problem with your teeth, mouth, or jaw that requires immediate attention. It can be painful, embarrassing, and even life-threatening if left untreated. While some dental emergencies require a trip to the emergency room, others can be managed at home until you can see your dentist.

Recognizing a Dental Emergency

Here are some signs that you may be experiencing a dental emergency:

•	Severe toothache: This is often a sign of an infection or an injured tooth.
•	Swelling in your face, mouth, or jaw: This can be a sign of an infection or an abscessed tooth.
•	Bleeding that won't stop: This can be a sign of a damaged tooth or gum tissue.
•	A loose or knocked-out tooth: This requires immediate attention to save the tooth.
•	Pain when biting or chewing: This can be a sign of a cracked or fractured tooth.
•	Difficulty swallowing or breathing: This can be a sign of a serious infection or injury.

What to Do During a Dental Emergency

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, here are some steps you can take:

•	Stay calm and assess the situation. Determine the severity of the problem and whether you need to go to the emergency room.
•	If there is bleeding, apply pressure to the area with a clean cloth. You can also try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water.
•	If a tooth has been knocked out, try to find it and rinse it with water. Do not scrub it or remove any tissue fragments. Place the tooth in a cup of milk or saliva and see a dentist immediately.
•	If you have a loose tooth, leave it alone and see a dentist as soon as possible.
•	For any other dental emergency, call your dentist's office and explain the situation. They can advise you on whether you need to come in for an emergency appointment.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

The best way to deal with a dental emergency is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Here are some tips for maintaining good oral care and preventing dental emergencies:

•	Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. This will remove plaque and bacteria, which are the leading causes of tooth decay and gum disease.
•	Eat a healthy diet and avoid sugary foods and drinks. These can damage your teeth and increase your risk of cavities.
•	See your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. This will help to identify and treat problems early on before they become emergencies.
•	Wear a mouthguard if you play sports. This will protect your teeth from injuries.
•	Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pen caps. This can crack or break your teeth.

Conclusion

Dental emergencies can be scary, but they are often treatable if you take action quickly. By following the tips above, you can help to prevent dental emergencies and keep your smile healthy. If you experience a dental emergency, don't hesitate to call your dentist or go to the emergency room.

Locations & Hours

Brier Creek

9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204
Raleigh, NC 27617-4879

Phone: 984-477-0177
Fax: 919-249-1375

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

North Raleigh

1911 Falls Valley Drive, Ste 107
Raleigh, NC 27615

Phone: 984-206-4242
Fax: 919-249-2145

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 7:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Knightdale

1101 Great Falls Ct, Ste 102
Knightdale, NC 27545

Phone: 984-733-0330
Fax: 919-415-1849

Office Hours
Mon: 8:30am - 6:30pm
Tues: 8:30am - 5:30pm
Wed: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Thur: 8:30am - 4:30pm
Fri: 8:00am - 2:00pm

Stansell Dentistry Associates, 9400 Brier Creek Parkway, Ste 204, Raleigh, NC 27617-4879, 984-477-0177, stanselldentistry.com, 3/18/2025, Related Phrases: dentist Raleigh NC,