Have a Dental Emergency? Here’s How to Get Help

Dental emergencies don’t wait for a convenient moment, and when pain strikes, every minute counts. Each year, more than two million people head to the emergency room for dental issues that could be treated more effectively and affordably by an emergency dentist or an urgent dental care clinic, according to the American Dental Association. 

Whether it’s a cracked tooth, sudden swelling, bleeding, or a missing filling, knowing how to respond can be the difference between saving your tooth and losing it. Continue reading to get answers to the most common questions people ask about emergency dental care and where to find the best emergency dental care in Miami Beach, so you can take the right steps when it matters most.

What Dental Injuries are Considered a Dental Emergency?

Not every dental problem requires rushing to the emergency dentist, but certain symptoms demand immediate attention. Signs of a dental emergency include: 

• Severe, throbbing tooth pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication may signal a possible tooth infection, known as an abscess. This type of infection requires professional care immediately, as it can spread to deeper tissues and even the bloodstream if left untreated. 
• A knocked-out tooth also presents a dental emergency, as dentists may be able to save it if you get treatment within a short window of time. 
• Excessive bleeding from the mouth or facial swelling also requires urgent dental care, as these can be signs of deep tissue damage from dental injury or a brewing infection. 

On the other hand, some dental issues can be addressed during a regular dental appointment, such as: 

• A lost crown or dental filling may cause discomfort, but it is typically not dangerous if seen within a few days.
• A mild toothache that responds to pain relievers can usually wait until normal office hours. 

While these situations don't demand midnight calls to your dentist, they shouldn't be ignored. Scheduling an appointment within a day or two can prevent minor problems from turning into emergencies.

What Should I Do for a Knocked-Out Tooth?

When a tooth gets knocked out completely, every minute counts, because you have about 30 to 60 minutes for the best chance of saving it. When dealing with a knocked-out tooth, here are eight important steps you need to take to ensure the tooth stays viable: 

1. First, carefully pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root, to avoid damaging the sensitive root tissue. 
2. Gently rinse it with milk or saliva if it's dirty, but don't scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments. Don’t wash the tooth with water. 
3. If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket, facing the right way, and hold it in place by biting down gently on a clean piece of gauze. 
4. If you can't reinsert it, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a container of milk or saliva, or between your cheek and gum if you're an adult. 
5. Never store it in water, which can damage the root cells. 
6. While managing the tooth, control bleeding by applying firm pressure with clean gauze or a tea bag to the empty socket for about 10 to 15 minutes. 
7. Reduce pain and swelling by holding a cold compress against your cheek for 10 minutes at a time. 
8. Avoid using aspirin directly on your gums or the wound site. This common mistake can actually cause chemical burns to your gum tissue and increase bleeding. Instead, take over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol as directed while you get to an emergency dentist immediately.

What to Do for a Throbbing Toothache

A persistent toothache can be distracting and frustrating, but there are several things you can try for pain management until you reach your dentist: 

• Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water; about half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water. This can help ease inflammation around the affected tooth. 
• Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen according to package directions, but never place aspirin directly on your gum or tooth as this can chemically burn your tissue and create additional problems. 
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 10 minutes, then remove it for 15 minutes, and repeat this cycle as needed to help reduce swelling.
• Protect the sensitive tooth by avoiding temperature extremes, such as ice cream or hot coffee, and steer clear of sugary foods and drinks that can worsen the situation. 

Remember that even if these measures provide temporary relief, a throbbing toothache typically indicates a more serious issue, like an infection or nerve damage, that requires professional attention. Don't make the mistake of assuming the problem has resolved if the pain subsides, as untreated dental infections can spread to other parts of your body.

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

Most dental emergencies don't happen randomly. They can be prevented with good dental hygiene habits and preventative measures in certain situations. Here’s how to be proactive about preventing most dental emergencies: 

• Always wear a properly fitted mouthguard when playing contact sports or engaging in high-impact activities. 
• Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or crack nuts, and steer clear of chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, or pen caps that can crack enamel. 
• Maintaining a consistent schedule of dental checkups. Dental visits every six months allow your dentist to spot and fix minor issues before they develop into painful emergencies. 
• Pay attention to warning signs your body sends: tooth sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods, mild but persistent pain, or small chips in your teeth are all early indicators of potential problems. When these symptoms first appear, schedule a dental appointment rather than waiting until the pain becomes unbearable or the tooth breaks completely. 

Finding the Best Emergency Dentist in Miami Beach

When a dental emergency hits, you need more than just quick care; you need a team you can trust to ease your pain and guide you through the next steps with clarity and compassion. At Miami Beach Smiles, Dr. Gaertner and his knowledgeable team are equipped to handle urgent dental issues, such as severe toothaches, broken teeth, and infections, using the latest technology in a calm, modern setting. Our expert team works quickly to relieve pain, prevent complications, and help you get back to feeling and smiling like yourself. 

We understand how stressful emergencies can be, which is why we prioritize same-day appointments, clear communication, and gentle yet effective treatment. 

Facing a dental emergency? Skip the wait and uncertainty of the ER and see the best emergency dentist in Miami Beach.