Cracked teeth, toothaches and lost fillings are common dental emergencies, but they don’t have to sideline you for long. Act quickly to help relieve discomfort and minimize further damage. Contact us right away to schedule an appointment and follow these tips to help protect your mouth in the meantime.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth
A cracked or chipped tooth may range from a minor cosmetic issue to a serious fracture that exposes the inner layers of the tooth. Even small cracks can worsen if left untreated, leading to pain, infection or more extensive dental work later.
The sooner you call the dentist, the better. We can determine whether bonding, a crown or another treatment is needed.
What to do:
- Save any pieces: If part of the tooth has broken off and you can find it, place it in a clean container and bring it to your dental appointment.
- Avoid aggravating the tooth: Your tooth may be more sensitive, so avoid chewing on that side. Stick to soft foods and avoid hot or cold foods that may cause irritation.
Toothache
Tooth pain is your body’s way of signaling something is wrong, such as an infection, decay or another underlying issue that won’t resolve on its own. Prompt dental care is essential to protect your oral and overall health.
What to do:
- Rinse with warm salt water: This simple mixture can soothe irritation and help reduce bacteria.
- Do NOT apply heat to your face: Heat from heating pads and other sources can increase swelling. Instead, ONLY apply an ice pack or cold compress to minimize swelling and discomfort.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain until you can see your dentist. Be sure to follow dosage instructions on medication labels.
- Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth: This home remedy can actually harm your teeth by burning gum tissue and making the problem worse.
Lost Filling
If a filling falls out, the exposed tooth structure can become sensitive and prone to further decay. Schedule a dental appointment as soon as possible so we can repair or replace the filling and prevent additional damage.
What to do:
- Rinse with warm salt water: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help clean the area.
- Protect the tooth: Place temporary dental filling (available at most pharmacies) or sugarless gum over the cavity until your dental appointment.
- Be cautious when eating: Avoid sticky, hard, or hot or cold foods, which can damage the tooth or trigger sensitivity.
When to Call Your Dentist Immediately
We have the equipment and expertise to address emergencies quickly and safely, and we can often save teeth that might otherwise be lost.
Seek urgent dental care if you experience:
- Severe, persistent pain in your mouth;
- An adult tooth that feels loose or unstable;
- Swelling in your gums, face or jaw; or
- Other signs of infection, such as fever, gum redness, excessively bad breath, metallic taste or pus.
At Family & Implant Dentistry, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, but we’re committed to providing professional treatment in a comfortable, worry-free environment. Our team provides same-day emergency appointments whenever possible so you can get relief quickly. Whether you cracked a tooth, have a toothache or lost a filling, we’ll ease your discomfort and help restore your smile. Call us today at 785-539-5949 to schedule an emergency visit.