We all hope to never have a dental emergency, but they do happen. From a toothache to a knocked-out tooth, dental emergencies can be painful, frightening, and even dangerous if left untreated. We are here to discuss what to do if you find yourself in need of immediate dental treatment.

Assess the Severity of the Situation

The first step in handling a dental emergency is to assess the severity of the situation. If you’re experiencing severe pain or excessive bleeding, it’s best to seek emergency dental care immediately. If your situation is less dire, you may be able to wait for an appointment with your regular dentist.

Check with Your Dentist

Emergency Dental Care: What to Do When You Need Immediate TreatmentCall your family dentist to see what to do. The dentist will either provide advice on how to handle the situation at home or schedule an emergency appointment. If you are around the Cincinnati area, reach out to us! Please call (513) 923-1215 for our Colerain Family Dentistry office or call (513) 661-6576 for our Western Hills Family Dentistry office. We are here to help with your emergency!

Other Tips to Keep in Mind

  1. Control the Bleeding. If you’re bleeding, it’s essential to control the flow as soon as possible. Apply pressure to the affected area with a clean gauze or cloth for at least 10 minutes. If the bleeding does not stop or if it’s severe, head to the emergency room for treatment.
  2. Save the Tooth. If you’ve knocked out a tooth, it’s crucial to act fast to save it. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part) and carefully rinse it with water, taking care not to remove any fragments or tissue attached to it. If possible, try to reinsert the tooth into the socket. If not, place it in a container of milk or saliva and bring it with you to the dentist.
  3. Manage the Pain. Dental emergencies can be painful, but over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help manage the discomfort until you can see a dentist. You can also try applying a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling.

Prevent Future Emergencies

The best way to prevent dental emergencies is to practice good oral hygiene and schedule regular checkups with your dentist. If you’re involved in sports or activities that put your teeth at risk, wear a mouthguard to protect them.

Dental emergencies can be scary, but knowing what to do in the event of one can make all the difference. Read our tips on overcoming dental anxiety here. If you need immediate dental treatment, remain calm, assess the severity of the situation, call your dentist, control the bleeding, save the tooth if possible, manage the pain, and prevent further emergencies in the future. Remember, timely and proper treatment can help save your teeth and your overall health. Contact Cincinnati Area Dentist today for more!

“Very professional & accommodating. Had an emergency, my regular dentist was out of town. They got me in right away. Everyone was extremely pleasant.”

-Julie O.
Patient