Dental Emergencies

Toothache

Take a pain killer, avoid very hot or cold food and drinks, see a dentist as soon as possible.

Damaged/cracked/broken Tooth:

Take a pain killer if painful, if a front tooth is has broken, keep the fragment as it can be re-attached to the tooth, avoid hot/cold foods if tooth is sensitive/painful, see a dentist as soon as possible.

Swelling:

Take a pain killer for pain and fever, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, apply a cold pack externally, do not apply any heat to the swollen area, see a dentist for treatment as swellings can spread rapidly.

Tooth fallen out of mouth:

If a tooth has fallen out completely from its socket, it can be re-attached if you see a dentist immediately. This usually happens in sporting injuries or accidents. Keep the tooth in saline or milk. Or you may even keep the tooth in the person’s saliva to prevent it from dehydrating. See a dentist as soon as possible.

Continued bleeding after tooth extraction/removal:

If the bleeding has not stopped, place a gauze swab in the mouth and press down with your teeth to maintain the pressure on the bleeding wound. Do not rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash. If no cotton/gauze is available, use a tea bag. See your dentist.

Loose cap (crown):

If the cap has come loose, report to your dentist as soon as you can. The cap can be refitted back on the tooth. Do not wait since the teeth shift and the cap may not fit properly. Do not attempt to fit the cap back yourself as you may swallow it.