What to Do Before You Reach the Dentist in a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies have a way of striking at the worst possible moments—right before an important meeting, in the middle of a family dinner, or just as you’re about to enjoy your first bite of dessert.

Whether it’s a sudden, unbearable toothache or a dramatic, slow-motion moment where your tooth lands on the floor, knowing what to do before you reach the dentist can make all the difference. Acting fast can help minimize pain, prevent further damage, and increase the chances of saving your tooth.

Let’s go over what to do in a dental emergency before you get to the office of your emergency dentist in Virginia Beach.

How to Handle Dental Emergencies

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

First things first—don’t panic. Yes, a cracked or missing tooth is alarming, but freaking out won’t help (and might make the situation worse).

Take a moment to assess what’s happening. Is there excessive bleeding? Severe pain? Swelling? If your injury involves head trauma or heavy bleeding that won’t stop, head to the emergency room first. Otherwise, keep reading.

Step 2: Immediate Steps for Common Dental Emergencies

Knocked-Out Tooth

If your tooth has made a run for it, you have a small window of time to save it. Here’s what to do:

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown and avoid touching the root.

2. Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub or remove any tissue attached.

3. Try placing the tooth back into the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or, in a pinch, hold it in your cheek to keep it moist.

4. Get to a dentist immediately—teeth have the best chance of survival if reinserted within an hour.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

If you bit down on something too hard and now your tooth is cracked, here’s what to do next:

1. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.

2. Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.

3. If there’s pain, take over-the-counter pain relief.

4. Avoid chewing on the affected side and see your dentist as soon as possible.

Severe Toothache

If your tooth suddenly starts throbbing like it has its own heartbeat:

1. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help clean the area.

2. Use floss to make sure nothing is stuck between your teeth.

3. Take a pain reliever, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums—it can cause burns.

4. Skip extremely hot or cold foods, as they might make the pain worse.

Bleeding Gums or Soft Tissue Injuries

If your gums, tongue, or the inside of your cheek is bleeding:

1. Apply gentle pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth.

2. Rinse with warm salt water to help prevent infection.

3. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.

4. If the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10-15 minutes, seek medical attention.

Step 3: Call Your Dentist ASAP

Once you’ve handled the immediate situation, it’s time to call in the professionals. Contact your emergency dentist and explain exactly what happened. They might have specific instructions before you arrive. If you’re in severe pain, have someone else drive you.

Be Prepared: Keep a Dental Emergency Kit

Dental emergencies happen when you least expect them, so having a small kit on hand can be a lifesaver.

Consider keeping:

• Sterile gauze

• A small container with a lid (for knocked-out teeth)

• Pain relievers

• Dental wax (great for braces issues)

• Salt packets (for quick saltwater rinses)

Don’t Wait—Get Expert Care from an Emergency Dentist in Virginia Beach!

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, contact Advanced Sedation Dentistry right away. Our team is ready to provide expert care to get you out of pain and back to feeling your best. Call us now to schedule your emergency appointment!