Dental emergencies can strike at any timelate at night, during weekends, or while travelingwhen it might be impossible to see your dentist right away. While nothing can substitute professional dental care, there are several steps you can take to manage pain, prevent further damage, and protect your oral health until you reach a dental clinic.
If you’re in Scarborough or the Greater Toronto Area, McLevin Dental offers emergency dental services, but for those moments when help isnt immediately available, knowing what to do can make a major difference.
Understanding What Constitutes a Dental Emergency
Not all dental issues require immediate attention, but some do. Common dental emergencies include:
Severe toothache or dental pain
Knocked-out tooth
Cracked or broken teeth
Lost dental filling or crown
Swelling in the mouth or jaw
Abscess or infection
Bleeding that doesnt stop
Understanding the severity of your condition helps you decide whether to call emergency services, go to the hospital, or manage symptoms temporarily at home.
Immediate Steps to Take for Common Dental Issues
1. Severe Toothache
A persistent or sharp toothache can indicate an infection, abscess, or deep decay. If you can’t reach your dentist immediately:
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation.
Use dental floss to remove any debris stuck between teeth.
Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum).
Apply a cold compress to the cheek near the affected area to reduce swelling.
Avoid using topical oral gels excessively, as they can irritate soft tissues.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
Time is critical with an avulsed (knocked-out) tooth. If treated within an hour, chances of saving the tooth are high.
Pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root.
Rinse gently with clean waterdo not scrub.
Try to reinsert it into the socket if possible. Hold it in place by biting down gently on a clean cloth.
If reinsertion isnt possible, place the tooth in a glass of milk or in your own saliva.
Get to a dental clinic as soon as possible.
3. Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Cracks can vary from minor cosmetic damage to severe fractures.
Rinse your mouth with warm water.
Apply a cold compress to control swelling.
Avoid chewing on the affected side.
If there’s bleeding, apply gauze with gentle pressure.
Save any pieces of the broken tooth if possible.
Avoid hard foods and temperature extremes until you see a dentist.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Dental restorations like fillings or crowns can fall out, exposing sensitive tooth structure.
Clean the area gently with warm water.
Use dental cement (available at most pharmacies) or sugar-free gum to temporarily seal the cavity.
Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
Keep the crown if its intact and bring it to your dentist.
Do not attempt to glue it back with household adhesives.
5. Dental Abscess or Swelling
An abscess is a serious infection that can spread if not treated.
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day.
Take OTC painkillers to manage discomfort.
Avoid pressing on the swollen area.
Do not attempt to drain the abscess yourself.
Seek immediate dental or medical attention if the swelling spreads to your jaw, neck, or causes difficulty breathing or swallowing.
General Tips for Managing Dental Emergencies
Keep an emergency dental kit at home that includes gauze, dental floss, a small container with a lid, salt, OTC pain relievers, dental wax, and temporary filling material.
Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods if youve experienced recent dental work.
Practice good oral hygiene to prevent infection and complications.
Be cautious with DIY remedies found online. Many are ineffective or harmful.
When to Visit the ER
In certain cases, dental emergencies escalate into medical emergencies. Head to the nearest emergency room if you experience:
Uncontrollable bleeding from the mouth
Facial swelling affecting vision or breathing
High fever with dental pain
Trauma to the face or jaw that impairs movement
While ERs arent equipped to handle all dental procedures, they can provide antibiotics, pain relief, and stabilization.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not all incidents are avoidable, preventive care significantly reduces the risk of dental emergencies:
Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings every 6 months.
Wear mouthguards during sports or if you grind your teeth at night.
Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or non-food items like pens.
Address minor dental issues before they escalate.
Emergency Dental Care in Scarborough
If youre in the Scarborough area, McLevin Dental is your trusted provider for comprehensive dental care, including same-day and emergency appointments. Our experienced team handles everything from root canals and extractions to urgent repairs of crowns, fillings, and broken teeth. When a dental crisis hits, were here to help restore your comfort and smile.
Final Thoughts
Dental emergencies are stressful, painful, and sometimes scary. But being informed and prepared can help you manage the situation effectively until professional care is available. Whether its a broken tooth, lost crown, or severe toothache, taking the right steps can protect your oral health and improve outcomes.