What to Do in a Dental Emergency—Before You Get to the Dentist

You bite down. Something cracks. Or maybe you’re watching your kid play, and they fall—hard—face first. Maybe it’s 10 p.m. and that dull toothache suddenly flares into a full-blown throb. When a dental emergency hits, panic can set in quickly. But staying calm is your best first move. Knowing what to do next can make all the difference.

If you're searching for an emergency dentist in Hillsborough, chances are you're already in a stressful moment. The good news is that most dental emergencies are manageable when handled the right way, especially in those crucial first few minutes before you get to the dental chair.

Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do First

Not all dental problems are emergencies, but some require immediate attention. Understanding the difference helps you respond quickly and effectively.

1. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)

This one is time-sensitive. If you act within 30–60 minutes, there's a good chance the tooth can  

be saved.

• Pick it up carefully by the crown, not the root.
• Rinse gently with water if it’s dirty. Don’t scrub or remove tissue.
• Try to place it back into the socket if possible.
• If not, store it in milk or your own saliva. Avoid water.
• See a dentist immediately. The sooner, the better.

Do not delay. This is one of the rare instances of a true dental "golden hour" situation.

2. Cracked or Broken Tooth

A broken tooth can be painful, sharp, or just alarming, but not all cracks are equal. Still, it’s best to protect the tooth and minimize pain.

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
• Apply cold compresses to your cheek to reduce swelling.
• Save any large pieces if possible.
• Avoid chewing on the affected side.
• Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain—never apply aspirin to the gums.

Call your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

3. Severe Toothache

Persistent, intense tooth pain is often a sign of infection or decay. It won't get better on its own, and it may worsen overnight.

• Rinse with warm salt water to ease inflammation.
• Gently floss to remove any trapped food or debris.
• Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek if there’s swelling.
• Stick to soft, lukewarm foods.
• Over-the-counter pain relief can help, but avoid putting medication directly on the tooth or gums.

You’ll need to see a dentist soon—even if the pain starts to fade. Toothaches are often warning signs.

4. Dental Abscess or Swelling

A dental abscess is a pocket of infection, usually at the root of a tooth or between the tooth and gum. These can be serious if ignored.

• Signs include swelling, a foul taste, fever, and a pimple-like bump on the gums.
• Rinse with warm salt water several times a day.
• Don’t try to pop or drain it yourself.
• Apply a cold compress if swollen.
• Seek emergency care immediately if swelling spreads to the jaw, neck, or face, or if it interferes with breathing or swallowing.

This is a situation where infection can spread quickly—don’t wait it out.

5. Lost Filling or Crown

When a crown or filling pops out, it exposes sensitive areas of your tooth and can leave you in discomfort or pain.

• If you still have the crown, clean it and try to place it back using dental cement (available at most pharmacies).
• If that’s not an option, cover the tooth with sugar-free gum or dental wax.
• Avoid sticky, crunchy, or hot foods until it's repaired.

It may not seem urgent, but waiting too long can allow the exposed tooth to shift or break.

6. Bitten Tongue, Lip, or Cheek

Soft tissue injuries can cause significant bleeding and may feel worse than they actually are. Most heal quickly, but some may require medical attention.

• Rinse the area with salt water or a diluted solution of hydrogen peroxide.
• Use clean gauze to apply pressure and stop bleeding.
• Apply an ice pack or cold compress to minimize swelling.
• If bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes or the wound is deep, seek medical attention immediately.

Keeping the area clean while it heals is key.

7. Something Caught Between Teeth

It may not sound like an emergency, but a stubborn piece of food or debris can cause pressure, inflammation, and even infection.

• Try gently flossing between the teeth—never use sharp objects like pins or toothpicks.
• Rinse with warm water or a saltwater solution.
• If pain or pressure persists, contact your dentist.

Trying to force something out can do more damage than good.

How to Manage Pain Until You See a Dentist

Dental emergencies can cause severe pain. While professional care is crucial, you can take safe steps to stay comfortable until you get treatment.

1. Use the Right Pain Relief

Over-the-counter medications can help reduce discomfort and inflammation. Ibuprofen tends to work best for dental pain because it targets inflammation directly, while acetaminophen can be used if you can’t take ibuprofen.

Follow dosage instructions carefully and avoid placing pills directly on your gums or teeth—doing so can cause chemical burns.

If you experience facial swelling, alternate between cold compresses (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) to minimize discomfort and keep inflammation under control.

2. Be Careful with Food and Drink

While waiting to see your dentist, what you eat and drink matters more than you think. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the area or exacerbate the damage.

Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, or smoothies, and avoid extremes in temperature—very hot or cold foods can intensify sensitivity. If you lost a filling or crown, chew on the opposite side to protect the exposed tooth.

And stay hydrated. Water not only keeps you comfortable but also helps rinse away bacteria that might worsen pain or swelling.

3. Keep the Area Clean

Even when something hurts, gentle hygiene is important. Skipping brushing or rinsing allows bacteria to accumulate, which can lead to increased pain or infection.

Brush gently around the affected area using a soft-bristled toothbrush, and rinse with warm salt water several times daily. This helps reduce bacteria and soothes irritated tissues.

Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can sting or dry out your mouth, especially if you’re already dealing with inflammation or injury.

Do You Need to See an Emergency Dentist in Hillsborough?

Dental emergencies can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. If you're experiencing pain or have a broken tooth, contact an emergency dentist in Hillsborough immediately to increase your chances of saving the tooth.

At Hillsborough Dental Center, our compassionate team is ready to help with any dental emergency. Contact us today or save our number for future reference.