By Maylands Dental Centre 
Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them—often during meals, while playing sports, or late at night. Whether you’re experiencing excruciating tooth pain, bleeding, or a broken tooth, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed or anxious in the moment. Knowing what to do next can make a significant difference in protecting your oral health and reducing the risk of long-term complications.
This guide is here to walk you through common dental emergencies, providing practical steps to manage discomfort until you can see a dentist. While these tips can help relieve pain and prevent further damage, they’re not a substitute for professional treatment. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s safest to contact a dentist immediately.
A dental emergency often involves sudden pain, trauma, swelling, or bleeding in or around the mouth that requires urgent dental care. These situations may include a gum abscess, wisdom tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, or injuries that damage tissue, such as the gums or cheeks. Prompt action is the first step towards preserving your smile and restoring comfort.
Blog Navigation
- Summary of the Content:
- What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
- Toothache and Severe Dental Pain
- Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Tooth
- Chipped, Cracked, or Fractured Teeth
- Lost Filling or Crown
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Object Caught Between Teeth
- Abscess or Dental Infection
- Emergency Dental Kit: What to Have on Hand
- How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
- Emergency Dental Care: What to Expect When Visiting an Emergency Dentist
- Final Thoughts
Summary of the Content:
- Dental emergencies can involve sudden pain, swelling, bleeding, or injury to the mouth or teeth.
- Common examples include toothaches, abscesses, broken or knocked-out teeth, and soft tissue injuries.
- If pain, swelling, or bleeding persists or worsens, contact a dentist immediately.
- The sooner a knocked-out tooth is re-inserted and stabilised, the more likely it can continue to function properly.
- Use only safe, gentle methods at home. Avoid using sharp tools or glue on teeth or restorations.
- First-aid steps can help reduce pain or protect the area until a dentist can be seen.
- Soft tissue injuries should be rinsed with salt water and managed with clean gauze and gentle pressure.
- A basic emergency kit can help you respond quickly and safely to such situations.
- Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene habits may lower the risk of dental emergencies.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
While not all dental concerns require immediate intervention, certain symptoms may compromise oral health or general well-being if not addressed promptly. Recognising when urgent care is necessary versus when a routine appointment is appropriate enables timely and effective decision-making.
When You May Need Emergency Dental Care
If you notice any of the following, it’s important to contact your dental team as soon as possible. In cases involving breathing difficulty or swelling that spreads to the neck, go directly to the emergency room.
- If you’re experiencing severe or excruciating tooth pain, and the discomfort doesn’t improve with over-the-counter pain relief medication, you may need immediate care.
- A knocked-out tooth caused by trauma should be handled promptly. Acting quickly can increase the likelihood that the tooth can be preserved.
- If you have bleeding in the gum tissue, lips, or inside the mouth, and it persists despite applying pressure with gauze or a clean cloth, seek help right away.
- Swelling in the jaw, cheek, or neck, especially when paired with fever or difficulty swallowing, may indicate spreading infection. This situation requires urgent attention.
- A damaged tooth with sharp edges can irritate or cut nearby tissues. It may also affect the surrounding teeth, so it’s important to see a dentist immediately.
- If you’ve had an accident that caused trauma to your jaw or mouth, it’s important to get a thorough evaluation. Even when the area appears stable, underlying injuries may still be present.
- Swelling or discomfort around the third molars (wisdom teeth) can escalate rapidly. This may affect your ability to eat, speak, or sleep.
- Signs of infection, like pus, a bad taste in the saliva, or facial swelling, should not be ignored. An infection can spread if left unmonitored.
- If a restoration becomes loose and causes pain or difficulty eating, contact your clinic for an emergency appointment.
Dental Concerns That Can Usually Wait 24–48 Hours
- Some situations are less urgent but still need professional attention. Booking an appointment within a day or two is usually appropriate for these cases.
- Mild tooth pain that comes and goes, especially without swelling or fever, can often be monitored temporarily. Still, it’s a good idea to schedule a check-up soon.
- If a filling or crown becomes loose and there’s no discomfort or exposed sharp edges, you may wait a short time. Avoid very hot, cold, or sticky foods during this period.
- A chipped tooth that isn’t painful and doesn’t cause sensitivity or soft tissue injury may be stable. It’s still wise to have it checked in the near future.
- If something becomes stuck between your teeth and doesn’t come out with dental floss or a warm water rinse, avoid using sharp tools. If the object remains, book a visit.
- Sudden sensitivity to temperature or sweet food, particularly in the molars, may be a sign of surface changes. This can usually be checked within a week unless symptoms worsen.
To stay comfortable while waiting for your dentist appointment, eat only soft foods, chew away from the affected area, and take painkillers only as directed. If any part of a damaged tooth breaks off, store the broken pieces in a clean container and bring them with you to your visit.
Toothache and Severe Dental Pain
Toothaches can range from mild sensitivity to intense, throbbing pain. Severe dental pain can have several causes:
- A deep cavity:
As dental decay advances towards the inner layers of the tooth, sharp and persistent pain often occurs as it spreads close to the pulpal nerve. - An infection that reaches the inner tooth:
Bacterial invasion of the pulp can trigger inflammation and cause changes around the tooth root. - A dental abscess:
This is a collection of pus caused by infection, often resulting in throbbing pain, swelling, and a foul taste in the mouth. - A fracture:
A tooth fracture or break can expose the underlying structures and cause pain when biting or chewing. - An exposed nerve:
This may occur after trauma, severe decay, or enamel wear, leading to intense sensitivity or shooting pain. Pain may also result from a developing abscess.
To manage pain before your emergency appointment, consider the following:
- You may take over-the-counter pain relief medication, following the dosage instructions provided.
- You can apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce swelling and numb the area.
- You may rinse gently with warm salt water to help keep the area clean and reduce discomfort.
Avoid applying any medication directly on the tooth or gum tissue, as this can exacerbate the pain. Avoid very hot or cold foods, as they may also worsen discomfort.
If the pain persists, becomes sharp, or is accompanied by swelling or fever, seek immediate attention. These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires immediate dental treatment.
Temporary measures can help reduce discomfort, but they do not address the underlying cause.
Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a true dental emergency. To increase the likelihood of preserving the tooth’s viability, a dentist should be seen within 30 minutes.
Follow these steps:
- Carefully locate the tooth and hold it only by the crown (the visible part), avoiding contact with the root.
- If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with milk or saline solution. Do not scrub the tooth, especially the root area. Air dry.
- If possible, place the tooth back into the socket and bite on a clean gauze to hold it in place.
- If reimplantation is not possible, place the tooth in a container with milk, saline, or the person’s saliva to keep it moist.
- Proceed to your dental clinic or the emergency room without delay for evaluation and further care.
- Do not attempt to force the tooth back into place if there’s resistance, visible debris in the socket, or signs of trauma.
Time is critical. A doctor or dentist can assess if reimplantation is possible and develop an appropriate treatment plan. The sooner the tooth is re-inserted and stabilised, the greater the chance it may remain functional.
Chipped, Cracked, or Fractured Teeth
Dental fractures can be classified into the following:
- Craze Lines:
Superficial cracks affecting only the enamel; typically asymptomatic and not requiring treatment. - Fractured Cusp:
A complete or incomplete fracture of a cusp, often associated with restorations; may necessitate cusp removal and restoration. - Cracked Tooth:
An incomplete fracture extending from the crown towards the root; symptoms vary, and treatment depends on the extent of the crack. - Split Tooth:
A complete fracture from the crown to the root, resulting in separable segments; often requires extraction. - Vertical Root Fracture (VRF):
Fractures originating in the root, frequently seen in teeth with a history of root canal treatment; diagnosis is challenging, and treatment options are limited.
- Craze Lines:
Not all broken teeth are the same. A small chip may be cosmetic, while a cracked tooth may expose the nerve or affect the tooth’s structure.
Here’s how to respond:
- If there is pain or the inner tooth is exposed, avoid chewing on that side and rinse your mouth gently with warm water.
- Carefully collect any broken pieces and store them in a clean container for your dental visit.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
See your dental team if the fracture is deep, causes pain, or affects function. Minor cracks can be monitored until a dental procedure is scheduled.
Serious damage may require immediate attention, especially if sensitive to temperature or pressure. Your dentist will evaluate the damage and explain appropriate treatment options.
Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can leave the tooth exposed and sensitive. This can cause discomfort when eating or drinking.
If this occurs:
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to help keep the area clean.
- Avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods that may put pressure on the exposed area.
- If you have recovered the crown, place it in a clean container and bring it with you to your dentist appointment.
- While waiting for your appointment, chew on the opposite side of your mouth and keep the area clean after meals to reduce the risk of irritation or food buildup.
Do not use household adhesives or glue to reattach the restoration. These can be harmful and may complicate the dental procedure.
Delayed care could lead to further exposure, pain, or possible infection. Arrange an appointment with your dentist within a few days to assess the tooth and plan for appropriate care.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Injuries to the tongue, lips, cheeks, or gum tissue can result from accidents, falls, or eating hard objects. While many soft tissue injuries are minor, some require emergency dental care.
Steps to follow:
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to help remove debris and reduce bacteria.
- Apply gentle pressure using clean gauze or a cloth to help control bleeding.
- Place a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to manage swelling and promote comfort.
Seek immediate attention if the wound is deep, continues to bleed after 10 minutes of pressure, or involves large tears. Some injuries may require a referral for stitches or additional assessment. Keep the area clean and avoid spicy or acidic foods while it heals.
Object Caught Between Teeth
Objects like food debris, bones, or seeds can become lodged between teeth. This can cause discomfort and may irritate the gum tissue.
Safe methods for removal include:
- Use dental floss or an interdental brush carefully to try dislodging the object.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm salt water to help loosen any trapped object.
Never use sharp objects, metal tools, or pins. These can further damage the gums and lead to complications. If the object remains stuck, causes pain, or leads to swelling, schedule a dentist appointment for removal.
If you are unable to remove the object, avoid poking or applying pressure. Eat soft foods and rinse gently after meals to prevent irritation.
Leaving debris between teeth may cause gum tissue inflammation or allow bacteria to accumulate, which can lead to infection or damage to nearby teeth.
Abscess or Dental Infection
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by bacteria and often develops when a cavity, gum disease, or trauma is not addressed in time. It can affect the root, surrounding bone, or soft tissue.
Common signs include:
- A noticeable swelling of the face or gum tissue, which may be accompanied by redness and warmth
- Persistent pain or pressure in the affected area that worsens over time.
- Fever accompanied by a bad taste in the mouth
- Pus or visible discharge near the affected tooth or gum.
An abscess or dental infection should never be ignored. If not managed promptly, it can become life-threatening and may spread to other areas of the head or neck, causing cellulitis.
Temporary relief may come from warm salt water rinses or over-the-counter medication, but only a professional can properly diagnose and manage the source of the problem. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve drainage, surgery or antibiotics.
Patients with an abscess should be seen as soon as an emergency appointment is available. Your dental team will explain the cause, discuss treatment options, and develop a treatment plan to address your concern.
Because abscesses involve bacterial infection, they will not go away without professional care. Delaying care may lead to worsening pain, damage to surrounding bone or teeth, or the spread of infection into the bloodstream.
Emergency Dental Kit: What to Have on Hand
Keeping a basic emergency dental kit at home can be helpful when dealing with unexpected dental problems. While this isn’t a substitute for professional care, having the right supplies can provide short-term comfort. It can also help you manage situations safely until you receive proper care.
Here are some useful items to include:
- Sterile gauze pads:
To apply gentle pressure and help control bleeding. - Small container with a secure lid:
Ideal for holding a dislodged tooth or broken crown. - Saline solution or milk:
Used to rinse or store an avulsed tooth temporarily until professional care is available. - Over-the-counter medication:
For temporary pain relief; use only if appropriate and follow dosage instructions. - Dental floss:
Helpful for removing food or debris lodged between teeth. - Cold pack or ice pack:
Used externally to help reduce swelling or inflammation after dental trauma. - Salt:
Can be added to warm water to create a rinse that helps clean the area and limit bacteria. - Latex-free gloves:
Useful when assisting another person during an emergency to maintain hygiene and reduce contamination. - Torch or small mirror:
Helps inspect the mouth and locate the source of the problem more easily.
Keep your kit in a clean, easily accessible location. Check items regularly to confirm they are still usable. Most of these items can be found at local pharmacies or supermarkets. It is also helpful to check expiry dates from time to time and replace anything that is no longer suitable for use. If you have questions about any item, your dental team can provide specific advice based on your needs.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While dental emergencies happen without warning, certain habits may lower the chance of unexpected problems.
Preventative measures include:
- Attend regular check-ups. Routine dental appointments allow your provider to monitor changes and manage concerns early.
- Brush and floss your teeth daily. This helps remove plaque and prevent cavities, gum inflammation, and bacterial infection.
- Wear a custom mouthguard. This helps protect teeth, gum tissue, and the jaw from trauma during contact sports.
- Avoid using your teeth as tools. Using them to open bottles or hold objects can lead to cracks or fractures.
- Be cautious when eating hard foods. Chewing popcorn kernels or ice can lead to a damaged tooth or dislodged restoration.
These steps are especially helpful for patients with extraction sites, previous dental procedures, or third molars still present. Your dentist may also refer you for protective devices. They may prescribe specific therapy based on your oral health history.
Emergency Dental Care: What to Expect When Visiting an Emergency Dentist
If you need urgent care, knowing what to expect during your emergency dental visit can help ease uncertainty.
- A dentist will ask about your symptoms and perform an oral evaluation. This may include imaging to check the root, surrounding bone, or other areas not visible.
- After making a diagnosis, your dentist will recommend treatment options. These may be immediate or staged, depending on the condition of the affected tooth.
- Your dentist may begin with medication. This can help manage infection, relieve pain, or control swelling before proceeding with a dental procedure.
- In some situations, your dentist may recommend further evaluation or more advanced procedures. This can include oral surgery or other services based on your individual needs.
Patients are encouraged to bring any relevant information, such as known allergies or medical history. If you have recovered a lost restoration or tooth fragment, bring it in a clean container for inspection.
Emergency dental care focuses on stabilising your condition and planning the next steps. Some issues can be addressed during the visit. Others may be scheduled once the immediate concern has been managed.
If you’re concerned about costs, you can speak with the clinic team about available payment options. A compassionate dental team will guide you through the process. They will assist you in accessing the care that suits your needs.
Final Thoughts
Dental emergencies can happen at any time and may involve pain, swelling, injury, or signs of infection. Responding calmly and seeking professional care quickly can make a difference in your comfort and long-term oral health.
Temporary steps such as rinsing with salt water or using a cold compress can help relieve pain and limit further irritation. However, these measures are not a replacement for a proper diagnosis and care by a dental professional. Early attention can help prevent symptoms from getting worse and may reduce the need for more involved procedures later on.
If you require urgent dental care, you can reach Maylands Dental Centre at (08) 9515 4804 or visit the clinic at 185 Guildford Rd, Maylands, WA 6051. A timely response can help manage discomfort and guide the next steps for your dental treatment.
General Dentistry
Cosmetic Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
Dental Implants
Orthodontics
Sleep Dentistry
Childrens Dentist
Cosmetic Procedures
Health Funds
Government Schemes
Payment Plan Options