What should you do in a dental emergency?

Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out permanent tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. You have the best chance of saving the tooth if you act within 30 to 60 minutes.

• Pick the tooth up by the crown (the white part), not the root
• If it's dirty, rinse it gently with water — do not scrub or use soap
• If possible, place it back in the socket and bite down gently to hold it in place
• If reinsertion isn't possible, keep the tooth moist in a cup of milk or between your cheek and gum
• Call us immediately and come in as quickly as possible

If the tooth cannot be saved, dental implants or a dental bridge are the most common long-term replacement options — Dr. Moncada will walk you through both.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

A cracked tooth may or may not cause immediate pain, but it always needs prompt attention. A crack that reaches the root can lead to infection if left untreated.

• Rinse your mouth with warm water
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling
• Avoid chewing on that side until you're seen
• Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort in the meantime

Depending on the severity, treatment may range from a dental crown or dental bonding to a root canal if the crack has reached the inner pulp.

Severe Toothache

Tooth pain that's persistent, throbbing, or keeping you up at night isn't something to wait out. It's often a sign of infection or advanced decay that won't resolve on its own.

• Rinse with warm saltwater to reduce bacteria and inflammation
• Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum or tooth — it can cause tissue irritation
• Over-the-counter pain relief can help temporarily, but this is not a substitute for treatment
• Call to be seen as soon as possible — an untreated tooth infection can spread

If the source is infected pulp, root canal therapy is typically the recommended treatment to relieve pain and save the tooth.

Lost or Broken Crown or Filling

Losing a crown or filling isn't always painful, but it leaves the tooth vulnerable to further damage and sensitivity.

• Keep the crown if you can find it and bring it to your appointment
• Temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) can protect the tooth until you're seen
• Avoid chewing on that side and be mindful of hot, cold, or sticky foods

In many cases the original crown can be re-cemented, or a new one can be fabricated depending on its condition.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Cuts or lacerations to the lips, gums, cheeks, or tongue can bleed significantly but often look worse than they are.

• Apply firm, gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze
• If bleeding doesn't slow within 10 to 15 minutes, head to an urgent care or emergency room
• Once bleeding is controlled, call us to assess whether dental follow-up is needed

When to Go to the Emergency Room Instead

Some situations go beyond what a dental office can treat. Head to the nearest emergency room if you experience:

• Significant facial swelling that's affecting your ability to breathe or swallow
• A jaw injury you suspect may be fractured
• Uncontrolled bleeding that isn't responding to pressure
• Signs of a spreading infection, including fever, swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth