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What is considered a dental emergency?

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A dental emergency can be an emotional and painful experience. Below, our Chilliwack dentists list some situations that are considered dental emergencies and explain what to do if one happens to you.


What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any dental issue that requires immediate attention from your dentist. Many of us will experience a dental emergency at some point in our lives, whether from a sports injury, chipped tooth, severe toothache or something else.

Here are some common dental emergencies – and what you can do if one of these scenarios happens to you.

Severe Toothache

Severe toothaches can come on suddenly or gradually, and can result in sharp or throbbing pain. If you have a severe toothache you are unable to manage with over-the-counter pain medication (such as ibuprofen), you’ve got a dental emergency.

Apply ice to your jaw, and go to your dentist’s office as soon as you can.

Object Lodged Between Teeth

Usually, dental floss would be the tool of choice to remove objects from between your teeth, but if this does not work it must be removed by your dentist. Do not use a sharp object to try and dislodge it, as you could injure your gums or push it further between your teeth.

Knocked Out Teeth

The good news is that your dentist may be able to put your knocked out tooth back in place provided that you get to the dentist’s office within an hour.

Try and locate your tooth, rinse it off with water (do not use soap or chemicals), and put it back in the socket. If you are unable to place it in the socket, hold it in your cheek or place it in a container of milk.

A lost tooth is considered an urgent dental emergency, so get to your dentist’s office right away.

Lost Crowns or Fillings

If you lose a crown or filling, the tooth structure may be weakened as a result of the tooth’s interior becoming exposed. It can also be quite painful and sensitive. That’s why a missing filling is a dental emergency, and your dentist should repair it as soon as possible so that it can be replaced.

Broken or Chipped Teeth

Chipped or broken teeth can be repaired and saved in many cases. A small fracture can usually be repaired with a filling, and more substantial breaks with a crown or root canal. If you have broken or chipped a tooth, make an appointment with your dentist to have it repaired as soon as you can.

Lacerations to Lip or Tongue

If an injury to the inside of your mouth results in a laceration to your lip or tongue, this is considered a dental emergency. You can use a clean cloth to quell bleeding. For any swelling, apply a cold ice pack to the area and seek treatment right away.

Dental emergencies are sometimes recognizable right away, and sometimes not. Do not hesitate to call our office if you have any questions. Our staff can screen you and provide advice on whether your issue is urgent.

Do you think you may have a dental emergency? Contact our Chilliwack dentists right away. We can make room in our schedule to see you in as soon as possible.

Looking for a healthier smile? Contact our dental team today!

(604) 824-4988