Dental emergencies never happen at a convenient time. One minute you’re enjoying lunch or a family outing and the next, you’re clutching your jaw in pain or holding a tooth that shouldn’t be in your hand. At Haddad Dental, we know how stressful a dental emergency can be, and we’re here to help you stay calm, take the right steps, and get the care you need as quickly as possible.
Here’s a quick guide to what you should do if you ever find yourself facing a dental emergency.
1. Knocked-Out Tooth
Time is everything when it comes to saving a knocked-out tooth. If it’s an adult tooth (not a baby tooth), handle it carefully by the crown (the part you chew with) and never touch the root. Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub or use soap. If you can, try to place the tooth back in its socket. If that’s not possible, store it in a cup of milk or a saline solution and call us immediately. The sooner we see you, the better the chance we can save the tooth!
2. Severe Toothache
A toothache can be more than just annoying; it can signal a serious infection. If you’re experiencing persistent, throbbing pain or swelling around your gums or face, don’t wait it out. Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the area to remove anything that might be stuck. You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, but never place aspirin directly on the gum because it can cause burns. Then call our office right away so we can find the cause and get you comfortable again.
3. Broken or Chipped Tooth
If you break or chip a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and save any pieces if you can. Apply gauze if there’s bleeding and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Even if the break seems minor, it’s important to have it evaluated because sometimes the damage goes deeper than you can see.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable. If you still have the crown, try placing it back on the tooth with a dab of toothpaste or dental cement from the pharmacy. Avoid chewing on that side and give us a call right away. We’ll get you in quickly and restore your smile.
5. When to Call Us
If you’re in pain, bleeding, or have visible damage to your teeth or gums, it’s a dental emergency and we want to hear from you. Even if you’re unsure, give us a call. It’s always better to play it safe. Our team will guide you, offer advice, and schedule a same-day appointment when needed.
At Haddad Dental, we treat every patient like family. When emergencies strike, we’re just a phone call away. Keep our number in your phone, and remember that you’re never alone in a dental crisis. We’re here to help you smile again, stress-free.
