At Polin Dental, we want you to feel confident about your oral health, even when unexpected issues arise. Knowing what counts as a dental emergency can help you act fast and protect your smile. Let’s break down what defines a dental emergency, what to do, and how to keep your teeth safe in any situation.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires immediate attention to relieve pain, stop bleeding, or prevent further damage. The American Dental Association emphasizes that prompt action can save teeth and reduce complications American Dental Association. Here are common examples:
- Severe Toothache: Intense, persistent pain that doesn’t ease with over-the-counter medication.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: A tooth completely dislodged from its socket needs urgent care to potentially save it.
- Cracked or Broken Tooth: Significant damage that causes pain or exposes the inner tooth.
- Loose or Dislodged Tooth: A tooth that’s been loosened by trauma but is still in place.
- Swelling or Abscess: Swelling in the gums or face, especially with fever, could indicate a serious infection.
- Lost Filling or Crown: Exposure of sensitive tooth areas that causes discomfort.
- Uncontrolled Bleeding: Bleeding from the mouth due to injury that doesn’t stop after 10–15 minutes of pressure.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
If you’re facing a dental emergency, stay calm and take these steps:
- Contact Your Dentist Immediately: Call Polin Dental at (561) 997-2323 for guidance or to schedule an urgent visit.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Rinse the tooth gently (don’t scrub), keep it moist in milk or saliva, and try to place it back in the socket if possible. Seek care within 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving it.
- Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and save any tooth fragments.
- Severe Pain or Swelling: Take over-the-counter pain relievers (avoid aspirin if bleeding) and contact us right away.
- Lost Filling or Crown: Apply dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover sharp edges and call for an appointment.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While accidents happen, these habits can reduce your risk:
- Wear a Mouthguard: Use a custom-fitted mouthguard for sports or if you grind your teeth at night.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Don’t chew ice, hard candies, or popcorn kernels, which can crack teeth.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily, floss, and visit your dentist regularly to catch issues early.
- Schedule Regular Checkups: Routine visits help identify weak spots before they become emergencies.
We’re Here for You
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but Polin Dental is ready to help. Whether it’s a sudden toothache or an injury, our team will provide prompt, compassionate care. Visit the website to schedule a checkup with Boca Raton's Best Dentist, Dr. Carly Polin, and keep your smile healthy!