7 Common Dental Emergencies (and What to Do Before You See Your Dentist)

Smoke detectors always seem to wait until 3 a.m. to start chirping. Car batteries die on the coldest morning of the year. And dental emergencies? They have an uncanny ability to happen right before a vacation, during the weekend, or in the middle of dinner.

While you can’t always prevent a dental emergency, knowing what to do in those first few minutes can make all the difference. Every year, nearly 2 million Americans visit emergency rooms for dental pain and other oral health problems—but many of those visits could be handled more effectively by seeing a dentist as soon as possible. Hospitals can often help manage pain or infection, but they usually aren’t equipped to treat the underlying dental issue.

Whether you’ve chipped a tooth, lost a crown, or have a toothache that suddenly won’t quit, here’s what to do until you can get the professional care you need.

Seven Dental Emergencies and What to Do Before You See a Dentist

1. A Knocked-Out Tooth
   A knocked-out permanent tooth is one of the few dental emergencies where time really matters. Acting quickly can significantly improve the chances of saving the tooth. If your tooth gets knocked out:
   • Pick it up by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root.
   • If it’s dirty, gently rinse it with water. Do not scrub or use soap.
   • If possible, carefully place the tooth back into its socket.
   • If that’s not possible, store it in a container of milk or saliva.
   • Contact our office right away.
2. A Severe Toothache
   A toothache isn’t something to ignore—especially if it is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling or sensitivity. Until your dental appointment:
   • Rinse with warm salt water.
   • Gently floss around the tooth to remove any trapped food.
   • Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek if swelling develops.
   • Take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed if needed.

   Avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums, as it can irritate tissue without relieving pain.

3. A Chipped or Broken Tooth
   Whether from biting something hard or an unexpected injury, a chipped or broken tooth should be evaluated promptly.
   • Rinse your mouth with warm water.
   • Save any broken pieces if possible.
   • Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
   • Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
4. A Lost Filling or Crown
   Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth sensitive, but it is often manageable until you are seen.
   • Keep the area clean.
   • If you still have the crown, bring it with you.
   • Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy may help secure it temporarily.
   • Avoid sticky or hard foods on that side.

   Avoid using super glue or household adhesives.

5. A Broken Denture
   Dentures are durable, but they can still crack or break with time or accidental drops.
   • Save all pieces.
   • Do not attempt any DIY repairs.
   • Avoid wearing it if it feels uncomfortable or sharp.
   • Contact our office for denture repair options.
6. Swelling or Dental Abscess
   Swelling in the gums or face may indicate a dental infection that should be treated promptly.
   • Persistent or throbbing tooth pain.
   • Swelling in gums or face.
   • Bad taste or drainage in the mouth.
   • Fever or feeling unwell.

   Do not delay care, as dental infections can worsen quickly.

7. Bitten Lip, Tongue, or Cheek
   Soft tissue injuries can bleed more than expected but are often manageable at home.
   • Rinse gently with warm water.
   • Apply clean gauze with steady pressure.
   • Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.

   If bleeding does not stop after 10–15 minutes, seek medical care.

When Should You Call a Dentist?

If you are experiencing significant pain, swelling, a knocked-out tooth, a broken tooth, or a lost restoration, it is always worth reaching out. We would rather help you determine the urgency than have you wait until a small issue becomes a bigger problem.

When in doubt, give us a call – (206) 242-0066

** If you’re experiencing uncontrolled bleeding, severe facial trauma, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek immediate emergency medical care or call 911.

Why Patients Choose Beffa Dental

• Same-day appointments when possible to help relieve pain quickly.
• Personalized care tailored to your comfort and situation.
• Modern technology and high-quality materials for accurate diagnosis and long-term results.
• A friendly team that helps guide your next steps with clarity and care.

Learn more about our thoughtful approach to dentistry and how we focus on long-term oral health.

We’re Here When You Need Us

Dental emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time, but you do not have to figure them out alone.

If you’re experiencing a sudden toothache, broken tooth, lost crown, swelling, or another urgent dental issue, contact Beffa Dental. We will help you determine the next steps and schedule care as soon as possible when appropriate.

When dental emergencies happen, we’re here for you. Whether you’re a longtime patient or looking for a dentist in Normandy Park, Burien, or the surrounding communities, we’re here to help you get back to feeling comfortable, pain-free and confident in your smile.

Just call us at (206) 242-0066 or reach out to us online!