Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly and can be quite distressing. Knowing how to respond to a dental emergency can make a significant difference in minimizing pain, preventing further damage, and ensuring prompt professional care.

Toothache

If you experience a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Gently floss to remove any food particles that may be causing the pain. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums, as it can cause tissue irritation. Contact your dentist to schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If a tooth is completely knocked out, it's important to act quickly. Rinse the tooth gently with water, being careful not to remove any attached tissue fragments. If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket, facing the correct way. If that's not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or saliva. Seek emergency dental care immediately, as there is a chance the tooth can be saved if treated promptly.

Broken or Chipped Tooth

Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a piece of clean gauze. Use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth or cheek to reduce swelling. Contact your dentist for an appointment to evaluate and treat the broken or chipped tooth.

Lost Filling or Crown

If a filling or crown falls out, clean the inside of the crown or filling and the tooth with warm water. You can use dental cement or temporary dental adhesive, available at most pharmacies, to temporarily reattach the crown or filling until you can see your dentist. Schedule an appointment promptly to have the filling or crown replaced.

Abscessed Tooth

An abscessed tooth is a severe infection that typically results in a pocket of pus around the tooth root. Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to help alleviate pain and draw out the pus. Contact your dentist Dublin in city centre immediately for a dental evaluation and treatment, as antibiotics or a root canal procedure may be necessary.

Broken Orthodontic Appliance

If a bracket or wire on your braces breaks or becomes loose, cover any sharp edges with orthodontic wax or cotton to prevent irritation or injury to the mouth. Contact your orthodontist for an appointment to repair the appliance.