Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them — whether it’s a sports injury, a fall, or just a bad bite on something hard. While these situations are never ideal, knowing what to do in the moment can make all the difference in preventing further damage and ensuring a quick recovery. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to do if you chip, crack, or lose a tooth, and how to handle dental emergencies until you can get professional care.
What to Do When You Chip a Tooth
Chipping a tooth might seem like a minor issue, but it’s important to take quick action to prevent the damage from getting worse. Here’s what you should do:
- Rinse Your Mouth: Start by rinsing your mouth with warm water to clean the area. This will help remove any debris and reduce the risk of infection.
- Apply a Cold Compress: If there’s any swelling or pain, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek or jaw near the affected area. This can help reduce swelling and numb the pain.
- Save the Piece: If the chip is large enough and you can find the broken piece, save it! While the dentist might not always be able to reattach it, it’s worth bringing to your appointment just in case.
- Visit the Dentist: Even if the chip is minor and doesn’t hurt, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. A chip can lead to more serious damage if left untreated, and your dentist can smooth out the edges or restore the tooth with bonding or a crown.
What to Do When You Crack a Tooth
A cracked tooth is a bit more serious than a chip, and it’s essential to address it right away. Here’s what you can do if you crack a tooth:
- Rinse with Warm Water: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Protect the Tooth: If the crack is sharp or jagged, try to cover it with dental wax or a piece of sugarless gum to prevent it from cutting your tongue or the inside of your mouth.
- Avoid Certain Foods: Until you can see the dentist, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Steer clear of hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could make the crack worse.
- Get to the Dentist Quickly: A cracked tooth needs professional care. Depending on the severity, your dentist may recommend a crown, bonding, or even a root canal if the crack has affected the tooth’s pulp.
What to Do When You Lose a Tooth
Losing a tooth, whether due to injury or an accident, can be alarming, but acting quickly can sometimes save the tooth. Here’s what to do if you lose a tooth:
- Handle the Tooth Carefully: If the tooth is a permanent tooth, pick it up by the crown (the top part) and avoid touching the root. Rinse it gently with water — do not scrub or remove any tissue attached to it.
- Try to Reinsert It: If possible, gently place the tooth back into its socket. Bite down gently to hold it in place. This is the best chance for saving the tooth.
- Keep It Moist: If you can’t reinsert the tooth, keep it moist by placing it in a small container of milk or saline solution. If neither is available, use water — just be sure to keep the tooth moist until you get to the dentist.
- See the Dentist Immediately: The sooner you get to the dentist, the better the chances of saving the tooth. If you can see the dentist within an hour of the injury, there’s a good chance they can reattach it.
When to Seek Emergency Care
In any of these situations, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible, but there are times when you should seek emergency care right away:
- Severe Pain: If you’re in extreme pain, especially if the tooth is broken and exposing the nerve, seek emergency dental care.
- Severe Bleeding: If the bleeding doesn’t stop after applying pressure, or if there’s a lot of blood, it’s important to get immediate professional help.
- Swelling or Infection: If you notice swelling, pus, or signs of infection, don’t wait to get it checked. An untreated infection can lead to more serious problems.
Taking Action: Your Next Steps After a Dental Emergency
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but knowing how to handle a chipped, cracked, or lost tooth can minimize damage and improve your chances of saving your smile. Remember to stay calm, follow these steps, and get to your dentist as quickly as possible. The faster you act, the better the outcome. Your dentist is there to help — so don’t hesitate to reach out for emergency care!