What is Considered a Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies can be frightening situations. You may not know where to turn when a family member suffers from oral trauma or illness related to dental issues.

This blog will explain which dental issues constitute an emergency and which can safely wait for an appointment during business hours.

Emergency Dental Problems

Knocked-Out Tooth

If you lose a permanent tooth, find it and hold it by the crown. Do not touch the root. Gently rinse it, but do not remove the attached tissue.

Try to place the tooth back in the socket and hold it in place by gently biting clean gauze. If you can't put the tooth back in the socket, keep it in a small milk container. Water with a pinch of salt can also be used.

If you see your dentist within an hour, you will have the best prospect of replanting the tooth.

Dislodged Tooth

Use cold compresses to relieve discomfort and take over-the-counter pain medication as directed.

Severe Toothache

Rinse with warm water. Using dental floss, check for objects between your teeth. Put a cold compress on your cheek to help with swelling. You can take over-the-counter pain medications, but do not rub them on your gums to avoid burns.

Soft Tissue Injury

If you have moderate to heavy bleeding, a split lip, or a cut in your mouth, rinse with salt water. Make a compress with a damp piece of gauze or tea bag. Use a cold compress to relieve any discomfort and swelling. If the bleeding does not stop within 10 to 15 minutes, visit the emergency room.

Face and Jaw Swelling

You may have a dental abscess or a tooth infection spreading to the gums. Seek emergency treatment to save your tooth.

Non-Emergencies That Need Prompt Care

• Minor chipped or cracked tooth
• Broken or lost filling or crown
• Object stuck between teeth
• Dull toothache
• Minor soft tissue injury
• Broken orthodontic braces

When to See the Emergency Room First

If you doubt whether to go to the emergency room, call ahead:

• Uncontrollable bleeding
• Broken facial bones
• Severe symptoms of illness related to oral health issues

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Emergencies

Is a chipped tooth a traumatic dental injury?

A chipped tooth is generally considered a minor dental injury. If the chip is deep enough to cause pain, see an emergency dentist.

What happens if I don't have a dental abscess treated?

Your pain will escalate, and you will develop further symptoms, such as fever and chills. The infection may spread and cause severe disease and tooth loss.

Call Fort Collins Dental Center

If you have a sudden and severe oral health issue that you cannot wait for, we can help. We offer emergency dental care in Fort Collins, CO, and the surrounding area. Please call our office at 970-482-1477 today.