Dental emergencies can be stressful and painful but knowing what to do makes a big difference. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or bleeding gums, acting quickly can help reduce pain, save a tooth, and prevent further damage. 

In this article, we’ll cover the most common dental emergencies, explain what causes them, and give you simple tips on how to handle them until you can see a professional. 

What Is a Dental Emergency? 

A dental emergency is any issue that causes pain, bleeding, swelling, or damage to the teeth, gums, or mouth and needs urgent treatment. Some problems can’t wait for a regular appointment and must be treated straight away. 

If you're unsure whether your problem is urgent, it's best to contact an emergency dentist for advice. 

1. Severe Toothache 

A toothache that is sharp, constant, or throbbing could be a sign of an infection, decay, or damage to the tooth. 

What to do: 

  • Rinse your mouth with warm salty water 

  • Take over-the-counter pain relief (follow the label) 

  • Use a cold compress on your cheek 

  • Avoid chewing on the sore side 

  • Contact your dentist quickly 

2. Knocked-Out Tooth 

A knocked-out tooth is one of the most serious emergencies. Fast action improves the chances of saving the tooth. 

What to do: 

  • Hold the tooth by the top (not the root) 

  • Rinse it gently with milk or water 

  • Try to place it back in the socket if possible 

  • If not, store it in milk or saliva 

  • Get to a dentist within 30–60 minutes 

3. Chipped or Broken Tooth 

Cracks or chips can expose the tooth’s nerves and lead to pain or infection. 

What to do: 

  • Rinse your mouth with warm water 

  • Save any pieces if you can 

  • Use dental wax to cover sharp edges 

  • Apply a cold compress if there's swelling 

  • Book a dental appointment quickly 

4. Swelling or Abscess 

An abscess is a pocket of infection, often with swelling, pain, or pus. It can spread to other areas if not treated quickly. 

What to do: 

  • Rinse with warm salt water 

  • Avoid heat near the area 

  • Take pain relief as needed 

  • Seek urgent care — do not delay 

If you're searching online for an emergency dentist near me, choose a nearby clinic that offers same-day appointments and infection control. 

5. Lost Filling or Crown 

If a filling or crown falls out, the tooth underneath may become sensitive or painful. 

What to do: 

  • Avoid chewing on that side 

  • Use dental cement from a pharmacy if available 

  • Keep the crown in a safe container 

  • See a dentist as soon as possible 

6. Bleeding Gums or Soft Tissue Injury 

Bleeding from the gums, tongue, or cheeks after an injury needs to be managed quickly, especially if it doesn’t stop. 

What to do: 

  • Rinse your mouth gently 

  • Apply pressure with clean gauze 

  • Use a cold compress 

  • If bleeding lasts more than 15 minutes, seek help 

When to See a Dentist Immediately 

Get urgent help if you have: 

  • Persistent, severe pain 

  • Swelling in your face or gums 

  • Fever or signs of infection 

  • A knocked-out or broken tooth 

  • Bleeding that won’t stop 

Don’t wait to see if it gets better, some conditions can get worse very quickly. 

Why Choose Macquarie Dental Care Belconnen? 

At Macquarie Dental Care Belconnen, we’re here when you need us most. Whether you’ve chipped a tooth, lost a filling, or have severe pain, our team is trained to handle dental emergencies with care and speed. 

Our emergency care includes: 

  • Same-day appointments (when available) 

  • Fast diagnosis and relief 

  • Gentle care for nervous patients 

  • Treatment for adults and children 

  • Advice to avoid future problems 

We’re committed to getting you out of pain and back to smiling. 

Be Prepared and Act Quickly 

Dental emergencies are never planned but knowing how to handle them can protect your teeth and reduce stress. Take quick action, stay calm, and contact your dentist as soon as possible. 

FAQs About Dental Emergencies 

1. What should I do if I chip or break a tooth? 

Rinse your mouth, apply a cold compress, and save any broken pieces. Avoid chewing on that side and see a dental professional quickly. 

2. Can I treat a dental abscess at home? 

No. While salt water rinses may ease discomfort, an abscess requires urgent professional treatment to prevent the infection from spreading. 

3. How soon should I act if I lose a tooth? 

Immediately. The sooner the tooth is returned to its socket or stored properly, the better the chance it can be saved, ideally within one hour.