Knocked-out tooth, severe toothache or a broken filling? Stay calm — here's exactly what to do first.
Dental emergencies always seem to happen at the worst time. Knowing what to do in the first few minutes can genuinely change the outcome — sometimes it's the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Here's a quick guide, then call us as early as you can.
A knocked-out tooth
For an adult tooth, pick it up by the crown — never the root — and rinse it gently if it's dirty. Try to place it back in the socket and bite softly on a clean cloth. If you can't, keep it in a cup of milk or tucked inside your cheek, and get to us straight away. A tooth put back within the first hour has the best chance of surviving.
Severe toothache or swelling
Rinse with warm salty water and take your usual pain relief as directed. Don't put aspirin directly on the gum — it can burn the tissue. Persistent pain or facial swelling can signal an infection that needs prompt treatment, so call us. If swelling affects your breathing or swallowing, treat it as a medical emergency and go to hospital.
Broken tooth, filling or crown
Keep any pieces if you can, rinse your mouth, and cover a sharp edge with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your tongue and cheek. It may not be painful, but a broken tooth is exposed to further damage, so it's worth being seen soon. Call us and we'll arrange the earliest appointment we can.
Related treatment
Emergency Dentist