The Most Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them

Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, causing discomfort, pain, or panic. Knowing how to respond in these situations can make all the difference in protecting your oral health and preventing further complications. At Marlborough Dental Centre in Calgary, we understand the urgency of dental emergencies and are here to provide the care you need when it matters most. In this blog, we’ll explore the most common dental emergencies and offer practical tips on how to handle them effectively. 

What Is a Dental Emergency? 

A dental emergency is any issue involving your teeth, gums, or mouth that requires immediate attention to relieve pain, stop bleeding, or prevent further damage. Recognizing a dental emergency and acting quickly can save your teeth and protect your overall health. 

Severe Toothache or Dental Pain 

What It Is: 

A severe toothache can be caused by cavities, infections, gum disease, or trauma. Pain may range from a constant ache to sharp, shooting sensations. 

What to Do: 

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. 
• Use dental floss to remove any debris that might be irritating. 
• Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling. 
• Avoid aspirin directly on the gums as it can cause burns. 
• Contact Marlborough Dental Centre for urgent dental care to address the underlying cause. 

Broken or Chipped Tooth 

What It Is: 

A broken or chipped tooth can occur from biting down on something hard, falling, or a sports injury. It can expose nerves, causing sensitivity and pain. 

What to Do: 

• Save any tooth fragments and rinse them with water. 
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce the risk of infection. 
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling. 
• Seek immediate attention from an emergency dentist at Marlborough Dental Centre to repair the damage. 

Knocked-Out Tooth 

What It Is: 

A knocked-out tooth is a serious dental emergency that requires immediate attention to save the tooth. 

What to Do: 

• Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root) and gently rinse it with water. 
• Try to place the tooth back in its socket without forcing it. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or a saline solution. 
• Contact Marlborough Dental Centre immediately. Time is critical—teeth are more likely to be saved if reimplanted within an hour. 

Abscessed Tooth 

What It Is:

An abscess is a painful infection at the root of a tooth or between the tooth and gums. It can cause swelling, fever, and a bad taste in your mouth. 

What to Do: 

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to ease discomfort. 
• Avoid squeezing or popping the abscess. 
• Seek urgent dental care at Marlborough Dental Centre to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading. 

Lost Filling or Crown 

What It Is: 

A lost filling or crown exposes the sensitive part of the tooth, causing pain and increasing the risk of further damage. 

What to Do: 

• Keep the filling or crown safe if possible. 
• Apply dental cement (available at pharmacies) to temporarily cover the tooth. 
• Avoid eating on the affected side until you see a dentist. 
• Schedule an appointment with Marlborough Dental Centre for same-day dental care to repair or replace the restoration. 

Soft Tissue Injuries (Gums, Tongue, or Cheeks) 

What It Is: 

Injuries to the gums, tongue, or cheeks can result from accidents, bites, or falls, causing bleeding and discomfort. 

What to Do: 

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area. 
• Apply gentle pressure with gauze to stop the bleeding. 
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling. 
• If bleeding persists, contact Marlborough Dental Centre for emergency dental treatment. 

Why Choose Marlborough Dental Centre for Emergency Dental Care in Calgary? 

At Marlborough Dental Centre, we prioritize your comfort and health during dental emergencies. Our experienced team offers 24/7 emergency dental care, same-day appointments, and personalized attention to address your needs. From dental pain relief to repairing damaged teeth, we’re here to help you every step of the way. 

Act Quickly During a Dental Emergency 

Dental emergencies can be distressing, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. Whether it’s a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a lost filling, taking immediate action and seeking professional care are key to protecting your oral health. 

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Calgary, don’t wait. Contact Marlborough Dental Centre for urgent dental care and peace of mind. Let us help you handle emergencies with expertise and compassion, ensuring the best outcomes for your smile and overall well-being. 

FAQ’s 

Q: Can a knocked-out tooth be saved? 
A: Yes, if treated promptly. Keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or saline and visit Marlborough Dental Centre immediately for the best chance of saving it. 

Q: What if I need same-day dental care? 
A: Marlborough Dental Centre offers same-day appointments for dental emergencies. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule your visit. 

Q: How can I prevent dental emergencies? 
A: Maintain good oral hygiene, wear a mouthguard during sports, avoid hard foods, and schedule regular check-ups at Marlborough Dental Centre to catch issues early.