What to Do in a Dental Emergency Near Smithfield

Not every dental issue needs to be treated as an emergency, but some situations do need prompt attention. Common dental emergencies include:

• Severe or persistent tooth pain
• A knocked-out (avulsed) tooth
• A cracked, chipped, or fractured tooth
• A lost filling or crown
• Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums
• Bleeding that doesn’t stop after an injury
• An abscess or visible infection

If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, it’s always safer to call and ask rather than wait it out.

What to Do Before You Reach the Dentist

While you’re on your way to see us, a few simple steps can help protect your tooth and manage discomfort:

Knocked-out tooth: Handle the tooth by the crown (the white part), not the root. If possible, rinse it gently with water and try to place it back in the socket without forcing it. If that’s not possible, keep it in a small container of milk or saliva and get to a dentist as quickly as you can – ideally within 30 to 60 minutes.

Chipped or broken tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water. If there’s swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. Save any broken tooth fragments if you can.

Lost filling or crown: If you still have the crown, keep it safe and bring it with you. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until you’re seen.

Severe toothache: Rinse with warm water and gently floss around the tooth in case something is caught between the teeth. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum, as this can burn the tissue.

Swelling or suspected infection: This can sometimes indicate a more serious issue and shouldn’t be ignored. Contact us as soon as possible, particularly if the swelling is spreading or affecting your ability to breathe or swallow, in which case you should seek emergency medical care immediately.

What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out? Handle it by the crown, rinse gently if dirty, and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk and see a dentist as quickly as possible, ideally within an hour.

Is tooth pain always an emergency? Not always, but persistent or severe pain shouldn’t be
ignored, as it can be a sign of infection or a deeper issue. If in doubt, call and describe your symptoms.

Can I put aspirin directly on a painful tooth? No. Placing aspirin directly on the gum can burn the tissue. Take pain relief as directed on the packaging instead.

What if I can’t get to the dentist right away? Manage pain with over-the-counter medication and a cold compress, avoid chewing on the affected side, and contact us to arrange the soonest available appointment.