Dental emergencies can happen at any time, often when you least expect them.
A sudden toothache, a broken tooth during a sports game, or even a knocked-out tooth can leave you in pain and wondering what to do next. Whether it’s a minor inconvenience or a serious issue, knowing how to manage common dental emergencies can help you seek the right care promptly, minimising pain and avoiding further complications.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 common dental emergencies and practical steps on how to manage them until you can see a dentist for emergency dental care.
Severe Toothache
A severe toothache can strike at any moment and is often caused by an infection, tooth decay, or an abscess. This type of pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, throbbing discomfort, making it hard to concentrate or sleep.
How to manage it:
While these remedies can help manage the pain temporarily, it’s crucial to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible to address the underlying cause.
Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
Losing a tooth due to an accident or injury can be distressing, especially if it's a permanent tooth. However, if treated quickly, there’s still a chance your dentist can save the tooth.
How to manage it:
Broken or Cracked Tooth
A broken or cracked tooth can occur due to trauma, biting on something hard, or untreated decay. A chipped or cracked tooth might not always be painful, but it can be sensitive to hot or cold foods and drinks.
How to manage it:
It’s important to seek emergency dental care to prevent further damage or infection.
Lost Filling or Crown
Fillings and crowns can sometimes come loose due to wear and tear, or accidental trauma. A lost filling or crown can expose the underlying tooth, leaving it vulnerable to decay and further damage.
How to manage it:
Abscess or Swelling in the Mouth
An abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to a bacterial infection, often around the tooth’s root or in the gums. It can cause intense pain, swelling, fever, and even bad breath. An untreated abscess can spread infection to other parts of your body, making it a serious condition.
How to manage it:
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When Should You Call for Emergency Dental Care?
If you're experiencing any of the above dental emergencies, it's important not to wait for your next regular appointment. Prompt action can make the difference between saving your tooth and needing more extensive treatments later on. Emergency dental care is crucial for any of the following scenarios:
How to Find Emergency Dental Care Near You
If you’re facing a dental emergency in Sydney or anywhere in Australia, finding an emergency dentist is easier than you might think. Here are some tips:
Dental emergencies are unpredictable, but knowing how to manage common situations like toothaches, knocked-out teeth, and broken teeth can help you minimise pain and protect your oral health until you can get to a dentist. Don’t hesitate to seek emergency dental care when necessary — prompt treatment can save your teeth and ensure your comfort.
By taking quick action and following the right steps, you can confidently manage any dental emergency that comes your way. Keep emergency numbers handy and always reach out for professional care as soon as possible to avoid further complications.
What to do in case of dental emergencies?
At Healthy Smiles Dental Group, we have listed some situations and what you need to do when faced with one.
