Knowing what to do in a dental emergency can make a big difference in the outcome. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies and steps you can take:

1. Toothache or Severe Pain

Tooth pain can be caused by anything from a cavity to an abscess. If you’re experiencing severe pain:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Use dental floss to gently remove any food debris.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth if there’s swelling.
• Contact Fiori Dental for an immediate appointment. Avoid using aspirin directly on the gums, as it can cause irritation.

2. Knocked-Out Tooth

If a tooth has been completely knocked out:

• Pick it up by the crown (the top part), avoiding the root.
• Rinse it gently with water if dirty but avoid scrubbing or removing any tissue.
• Try to place the tooth back in its socket if possible. If not, store it in milk or a tooth preservation kit.
• See Drs. Ferrera as soon as possible. The faster you get help, the higher the chances of saving the tooth.

3. Cracked or Broken Tooth

A cracked or broken tooth can lead to pain and further complications if not treated:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Save any broken pieces if possible and bring them to your appointment.
• Call our office immediately to schedule emergency care.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

When a filling or crown falls out, it can leave your tooth exposed to bacteria and further damage:

• Keep the filling or crown if you can and bring it with you.
• Avoid chewing on the affected side until you’re seen by a dentist.
• Use over-the-counter dental cement or sugar-free gum to temporarily cover the area if needed.

5. Abscess or Swelling

An abscess is a painful infection around the root of a tooth or in the gums and requires immediate attention:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help draw out the infection.
• Avoid pressing on the abscess.
• Schedule an appointment right away, as untreated infections can spread and lead to serious health issues.