A dental emergency can happen at any time — a knocked-out tooth on the rugby pitch, a cracked molar during dinner, or a sudden, throbbing toothache that wakes you in the middle of the night. Knowing what to do in those crucial first minutes can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. Here's what you need to know to handle the most common dental emergencies effectively.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
Not every dental problem is an emergency, but these situations require urgent attention from a dentist:
- A knocked-out (avulsed) tooth — this is the most time-critical dental emergency
- A cracked, broken, or fractured tooth
- Severe toothache that doesn't respond to over-the-counter painkillers
- Swelling in your face, jaw, or gums that's getting worse
- Bleeding that won't stop after a tooth extraction
- A lost filling or crown that's causing pain or sensitivity
- An abscess or signs of infection — fever, swelling, bad taste, or a pimple on the gum
- Injury to the soft tissues of the mouth — lips, tongue, cheeks
If you're unsure whether your situation is urgent, it's always better to call and ask. At Oxford Dental Centre, our team can assess your symptoms over the phone and advise you on the best course of action. We never want you to sit at home worrying when a quick phone call could put your mind at ease.
Knocked-Out Tooth: Act Fast
A knocked-out permanent tooth is the most time-sensitive dental emergency there is. If you act quickly and correctly, the tooth can often be saved and last for the rest of your life. Here's what to do:
- Find the tooth and handle it only by the crown (the white, visible part) — never touch the root
- If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently in milk or your own saliva — don't scrub it, don't use soap, and don't run it under the tap for more than a few seconds
- Try to place the tooth back in its socket immediately and bite down gently on a clean cloth or tissue to hold it in place
- If you can't reinsert it (or if it's a child's baby tooth), keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk, or tuck it inside your cheek against your gum
- Get to a dentist within 30 minutes — every minute counts for the best chance of saving the tooth
Severe Toothache
Toothache can range from a dull, persistent ache to sharp, excruciating pain that makes it impossible to concentrate or sleep. While you're waiting to see a dentist:
- Take over-the-counter pain relief — ibuprofen is particularly effective for dental pain as it reduces inflammation. Paracetamol is a good alternative. Never place aspirin directly on the gum next to the aching tooth
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) to help reduce swelling and clean the area
- Apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time
- Avoid very hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks that might trigger the pain
- Floss gently around the affected tooth to remove any trapped food that might be causing the pain
Severe pain often indicates an infection, nerve damage, or an abscess that requires professional treatment. Don't wait for it to "go away" on its own — it usually won't, and delaying treatment can make the problem much worse and more expensive to fix.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
If you crack or break a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and save any pieces you can find. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and take pain relief if needed. Even if the damage seems minor, see a dentist as soon as possible — hairline cracks can worsen over time and allow bacteria to enter the tooth, leading to infection.
Depending on the extent and location of the damage, treatment may involve restorative procedures such as composite bonding for small chips, a crown for more significant breaks, root canal treatment if the nerve is exposed, or in severe cases, a dental implant if the tooth can't be saved.
Lost Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown leaves your tooth vulnerable to further damage, decay, and sensitivity. While you're waiting to see a dentist, you can temporarily reattach a crown with denture adhesive or even a small amount of toothpaste. Pharmacies also sell temporary filling kits. Don't chew on that side and avoid extreme temperatures.
When to Go to A&E
Most dental emergencies are best handled by a dentist, but go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department if you experience:
- Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth that doesn't stop with firm pressure
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Severe facial swelling that's spreading towards your eye or down your neck
- A suspected fractured jaw
- Loss of consciousness after facial trauma
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Many dental emergencies are preventable with the right precautions. Regular check-ups identify weak teeth, hairline cracks, and potential problems before they become emergencies. Wear a professionally fitted mouthguard for contact sports, avoid chewing ice, hard sweets, and non-food objects, and maintain good oral hygiene to keep your teeth strong and healthy.
Oxford Dental Centre Emergency Care
If you experience a dental emergency in Oxford or the wider Oxfordshire area, call Oxford Dental Centre immediately on 01865 493372. We prioritise emergency patients and will do everything we can to see you the same day. For more information about our emergency dental services, visit our dedicated page.