Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them—whether you bite down on something too hard, experience sudden pain, or suffer an injury during sports. While every situation is different, some dental emergencies are far more common than others. Knowing what these emergencies look like—and how your dentist can treat them—can make it easier to stay calm and get the care you need quickly.
Toothache or Severe Dental Pain
A persistent toothache is one of the most common dental emergencies. Tooth pain can stem from a variety of causes, such as deep decay, infection, or a fractured tooth. If the pain is severe or accompanied by swelling, it may indicate an abscess that requires immediate attention.
Treatment often depends on the cause. For decay or infection that has reached the inner portion of the tooth, your dentist may recommend root canal therapy to remove the infected tissue and preserve the natural tooth. In other cases, a simple filling or crown may be enough to restore comfort and function.
Chipped or Cracked Teeth
Chipped and cracked teeth are also frequent emergencies, especially for patients who chew hard foods or have accidents involving the mouth. Even a small chip can expose the inner layers of the tooth, leaving it vulnerable to sensitivity and infection.
If you’ve chipped or cracked a tooth, try to save any fragments and rinse your mouth with warm water. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until you can see your dentist. Treatment options vary depending on the extent of the damage. Minor chips can often be repaired with dental bonding or a tooth-colored filling, while more significant cracks may require a crown to restore strength and appearance.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. Acting quickly can often make the difference between saving and losing the tooth. If possible, pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it with water, and try to place it back into its socket. If that isn’t possible, store it in milk or saliva until you can reach your dentist—ideally within 30 to 60 minutes.
Your dentist will attempt to reinsert and stabilize the tooth. If it cannot be saved, they may recommend a dental implant or bridge to restore your smile and prevent bone loss in the area.
Lost or Damaged Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth exposed and sensitive to temperature or pressure. While this situation may not always be painful, it still requires prompt attention to prevent further damage or infection.
Until you can see your dentist, try to keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side. Your dentist can replace the restoration with a new filling or crown, protecting the tooth from future issues.
Abscessed Tooth or Gum Infection
An abscess is a serious infection that forms at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gums. Common symptoms include swelling, severe pain, pus discharge, and sometimes fever. Left untreated, the infection can spread to other areas of the body and become life-threatening.
Immediate treatment is necessary. Your dentist will likely drain the abscess and prescribe antibiotics to control the infection. Root canal therapy or extraction may also be needed to address the underlying cause.
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but knowing what to expect can help you act quickly and confidently. With the right care, most dental issues can be treated effectively and comfortably, helping you get back to your normal routine as soon as possible.
About the Practice
At Sunnyvale Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Sudeep and our experienced team are dedicated to providing prompt, compassionate emergency dental treatment. Whether you’re dealing with a toothache, cracked tooth, or knocked-out tooth, we’re here to relieve your pain and restore your oral health.
Call us at (408) 547-9101 or request an appointment online.