Dental Emergencies: What to Do When Every Second Counts

A dental emergency refers to any oral health issue that requires immediate attention to relieve pain, stop bleeding, prevent infection, or save a tooth. Unlike routine dental issues, emergencies often involve severe discomfort, visible damage, or a risk of long-term complications.

Some dental emergencies, such as trauma from an accident, can happen unexpectedly, while others develop over time due to untreated decay or gum disease. Being informed about these issues and how to handle them can help you stay calm and act appropriately in an urgent situation.

Common Dental Emergencies and Their Causes



Severe Toothache

A persistent, intense toothache can indicate deep decay, an infection, or an abscess. Tooth pain should never be ignored, as it can signal underlying issues that may worsen if left untreated. Infections that begin as minor cavities can spread to the pulp of the tooth, leading to inflammation and severe discomfort.

Knocked-Out Tooth

Trauma from sports injuries, falls, or accidents can result in a tooth being completely dislodged from its socket. A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies, and acting quickly can improve the chances of saving it.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

Teeth can crack or break due to biting down on hard foods, accidents, or untreated cavities that weaken the enamel. While some fractures may be minor, others can expose the inner layers of the tooth, causing pain and sensitivity.

Dental Abscess or Infection

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection, often resulting from untreated cavities, gum disease, or trauma. Symptoms include swelling, severe pain, fever, and a foul taste in the mouth. An abscess requires immediate treatment, as the infection can spread to other areas of the body.



Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown exposes the affected tooth, making it vulnerable to sensitivity, further decay, and damage. If left untreated, the tooth may weaken and require more extensive treatment.

Bleeding or Swollen Gums

Gums that bleed excessively or appear swollen could be a sign of advanced gum disease. While mild gum bleeding during brushing can occur due to irritation, persistent or unexplained bleeding should be examined by a dentist to prevent further complications.

Objects Stuck Between Teeth

Small objects, such as food particles or foreign materials, can become lodged between teeth, causing irritation and discomfort. Attempting to remove these objects improperly can lead to gum damage or tooth fractures.

Jaw Pain or Dislocation

Sudden jaw pain or a dislocated jaw can result from trauma, excessive teeth grinding (bruxism), or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Difficulty opening or closing the mouth and severe discomfort are indicators that immediate attention is needed.

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

While some emergencies happen by accident, many can be prevented by taking proper care of your teeth and gums. Here are some ways to reduce your risk:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash help prevent cavities, gum disease, and infections that can lead to emergencies. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy lowers the chances of unexpected pain and complications.

Schedule Regular Dental Checkups

Routine visits to East Ottawa Dental allow us to detect early signs of decay, gum disease, and other dental issues before they escalate into emergencies. Professional cleanings remove plaque buildup, reducing the risk of infections and inflammation.

Wear a Mouthguard for Protection

If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a custom mouthguard can help protect your teeth from trauma and excessive wear. A properly fitted mouthguard absorbs impact, reducing the risk of fractures and knocked-out teeth.

Avoid Chewing Hard Foods and Objects

Chewing on hard candies, ice, or using your teeth to open packaging can lead to fractures or damage to dental restorations. Being mindful of what you bite down on can prevent chips, cracks, and broken teeth.

Address Dental Issues Promptly

If you experience tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, or minor discomfort, do not ignore it. Early intervention can prevent these minor issues from becoming major emergencies. Seeking treatment for small cavities, loose fillings, or early gum disease can save you from pain and costly procedures later on.

Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet

Drinking plenty of water helps wash away bacteria and food particles, while a diet rich in calcium and vitamins strengthens teeth and gums. Avoiding excessive sugar and acidic foods can also reduce the risk of cavities and enamel erosion.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Despite the best precautions, emergencies can still happen. Knowing what to do in the moment can help minimize damage and discomfort.

• For a Severe Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water and take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums.
• For a Knocked-Out Tooth: Handle the tooth by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently, and attempt to place it back in its socket. If that is not possible, store it in milk or saliva and seek immediate dental care.
• For a Chipped or Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water, save any broken pieces, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on the affected side.
• For a Dental Abscess: Rinse with warm salt water to reduce bacteria, but do not attempt to drain the abscess yourself. Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible.
• For a Lost Filling or Crown: If possible, place the crown back on the tooth using temporary dental cement from a pharmacy. Avoid chewing on the exposed tooth and schedule a dental visit.
• For Jaw Pain or Dislocation: Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and avoid moving the jaw excessively. Seek emergency dental or medical care if the jaw appears dislocated.

How We Can Help in a Dental Emergency

When a dental emergency arises, quick and professional care is key to protecting your smile. At East Ottawa Dental, we offer a same dayemergency dental services, ensuring you receive the right treatment based on your specific condition.

• Same-Day Emergency Appointments Whenever Possible: We understand that dental emergencies cannot wait. Whenever possible, we offer same-day appointments to provide immediate relief and prevent further damage.
• Pain Relief and Infection Management: Sudden toothaches, infections, or dental abscesses can be excruciating. We diagnose the cause of your pain and provide treatments such as root canals, antibiotics, or extractions to eliminate discomfort and address the underlying issue.
• Treatment for Tooth Injuries and Trauma: Accidents happen, and when they do, quick action can mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Whether you have a chipped, cracked, or knocked-out tooth, we provide restorations such as dental bonding, crowns, or reimplantation to restore function and appearance.
• Restorative Procedures for Lost or Damaged Dental Work: If a filling, crown, or bridge has fallen out, we offer immediate solutions to protect the exposed tooth and prevent further complications.
• Guidance on Preventing Future Dental Emergencies: Once your immediate concern is addressed, we help you develop a plan to protect your teeth from future emergencies. This may include recommendations for a custom mouthguard for sports or nighttime grinding, improved oral hygiene techniques, or regular dental checkups.

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, do not wait—contact East Ottawa Dental for assistance. Our dedicated team is ready to provide expert care and help you regain comfort and confidence in your smile.

Be Prepared, Stay Protected

At East Ottawa Dental, we understand that dental emergencies can be painful and overwhelming. That is why we prioritize urgent cases, ensuring you receive the attention and care needed to relieve discomfort, prevent complications, and restore your oral health. Whether you are dealing with an intense toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a sudden infection, our experienced team is prepared to handle emergency situations with efficiency and compassion.

Delaying treatment can worsen the issue, leading to further pain, infections, or even tooth loss. Seeking prompt professional care is essential to managing the situation effectively and preventing long-term consequences. We are here to help, offering comprehensive emergency dental services tailored to your needs. Take the first step toward relief—contact us today to schedule your appointment and let our dedicated team provide the care you need.