What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that involves severe pain, bleeding, trauma, or infection that requires prompt professional care. Knowing when to seek immediate help can prevent lasting damage and relieve pain faster.
Common Dental Emergencies
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, time is critical. Handle the tooth by the crown only, rinse it gently with water if dirty, and try to reinsert it into the socket. If that's not possible, keep it in milk or a tooth preservation product and get to a dentist within 30–60 minutes. Avoid letting the tooth dry out.
Severe Toothache
Persistent or severe tooth pain often indicates infection, decay, or a cracked tooth. Rinse with warm water, floss gently to remove any trapped food, and take over-the-counter pain relief as directed. See a dentist as soon as possible—delaying can allow infection to spread.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Save any fragments, rinse your mouth with warm water, and apply a cold compress if there's swelling. If the break is sharp or exposes the nerve, seek care the same day to reduce pain and prevent infection.
Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown comes out, keep it if you have it. You can temporarily place sugar-free gum or dental cement from a pharmacy over a sensitive area until you see the dentist. Schedule an appointment promptly to avoid further damage.
What to Do Before You Arrive
Apply pressure with gauze to control bleeding. Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling. Take pain medication as recommended on the label. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums. Call Philadelphia Dental for same-day emergency care when you need us.