Dental emergencies can happen at any time — a knocked-out tooth during a sports game, a sudden severe toothache, or a broken crown at dinner. Knowing exactly what to do in the first few minutes can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
A knocked-out permanent tooth is a true dental emergency. Act immediately: Pick up the tooth by the crown (white part), not the root. If dirty, gently rinse with water — do not scrub. Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket and bite down gently on a clean cloth. If reinsertion isn't possible, keep the tooth moist in milk, saliva, or a tooth preservation kit (like Save-A-Tooth). Call Churchville Dental Care immediately at (410) 838-1133. Time is critical — the best chance of saving the tooth is within 30–60 minutes.
Severe Toothache
A severe, persistent toothache — especially with swelling, fever, or a bad taste — may indicate an abscess or serious infection. Rinse with warm salt water. Take over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen is more effective than acetaminophen for dental pain). Do not place aspirin directly on the tooth or gum — this can cause chemical burns. Call our office immediately. A dental abscess is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with clean gauze. Save any broken tooth fragments if possible. Call Churchville Dental Care as soon as possible. Treatment depends on the severity — a minor chip may only need smoothing, while a severe crack may require a crown or extraction.
Lost Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown is uncomfortable but not usually an emergency. In the meantime, you can use dental cement (available at pharmacies) or sugar-free gum to temporarily cover the exposed tooth. Avoid chewing on that side. Call our office to schedule a repair appointment as soon as possible — leaving a tooth unprotected can lead to further damage.
Soft Tissue Injuries (Tongue, Cheek, Lips)
Rinse with warm salt water. Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze to control bleeding. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. If bleeding does not stop after 15–20 minutes, go to an emergency room.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Churchville Dental Care see dental emergencies?
Yes. Call us at (410) 838-1133 as soon as possible. We make every effort to see emergency patients the same day. For after-hours emergencies, our voicemail provides guidance.
What counts as a dental emergency?
Dental emergencies include: knocked-out teeth, severe toothache with swelling or fever, dental abscess, broken tooth with sharp edges or pain, uncontrolled bleeding, and lost crown or filling causing significant pain.
Should I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
Go to the ER if you have severe swelling affecting your breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or signs of a spreading infection (high fever, difficulty opening your mouth). For most dental emergencies, call your dentist first.
How can I prevent dental emergencies?
Wear a mouthguard during contact sports, avoid chewing ice and hard candy, use scissors instead of your teeth to open packages, and maintain regular dental check-ups to catch problems before they become emergencies.