A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it, whether it's a knocked-out tooth, a sudden toothache, or a broken filling. Knowing how to handle a dental emergency can help prevent further damage and ensure you get the right treatment quickly. In this post, we’ll discuss the steps you should take during a dental emergency and when it’s time to contact an emergency dentist, including finding a reliable London dentist to assist you.

What is Considered a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth or gums that requires immediate attention. While some dental issues, such as mild tooth sensitivity, can wait for a regular appointment, others need urgent care to avoid permanent damage or intense pain. Here are some common dental emergencies:

• Knocked-out tooth: If your tooth gets knocked out due to an accident or injury, acting quickly can save it.
• Chipped or broken tooth: While small chips may not be urgent, a severe break exposing the tooth’s nerve needs fast attention.
• Toothache: A severe toothache can be a sign of infection or decay and should be treated promptly.
• Lost filling or crown: When a filling or crown falls out, the affected tooth becomes vulnerable to damage.
• Gum injury or bleeding: If your gums are bleeding heavily or are injured, this could be a sign of a more serious issue.



If you’re ever unsure whether your situation qualifies as a dental emergency, it's best to contact a London dentist or emergency dentist for advice.

“In a dental emergency, your actions in the first few minutes can make a big difference.”

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

In a dental emergency, your actions in the first few minutes can make a big difference. Here are the steps you should follow depending on the type of dental emergency you face.

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is one of the most serious dental emergencies, but with quick action, the tooth can sometimes be saved.

• Find the tooth: Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part), avoiding the root.
• Rinse the tooth: Gently rinse the tooth with water if it's dirty, but do not scrub or remove any tissue fragments.
• Try to reinsert it: If possible, try to place the tooth back into the socket. Hold it in place with a clean cloth or tissue. If you can’t reinsert the tooth, keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk or holding it in your cheek.
• Seek immediate help: Contact an emergency dentist or your local London dentist as soon as possible. The chances of saving the tooth are higher if you see a dentist within an hour.

2. Chipped or Broken Tooth

If you’ve chipped or broken a tooth, there are several steps you can take to minimise damage and manage pain.

• Save the pieces: If possible, collect any pieces of the broken tooth and rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Stop the bleeding: If there is bleeding, apply gauze or a clean cloth to the area for 10 minutes until the bleeding stops.
• Apply a cold compress: To reduce swelling, hold a cold compress to your cheek near the broken tooth.
• Visit an emergency dentist: Whether the break is small or large, you should contact a London dentist to assess the damage and plan for repair. A severe break may require a crown or other dental treatment.

3. Toothache

A toothache can be caused by many issues, including decay, infection, or an abscess. Severe tooth pain is a dental emergency and needs prompt attention.

• Rinse with warm saltwater: This can help reduce inflammation and clear out any debris stuck between your teeth.
• Use pain relief: Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen can help manage the pain until you see a dentist.
• Apply a cold compress: If your face is swollen, a cold compress can reduce swelling and provide some relief.
• Visit an emergency dentist: A London dentist will be able to diagnose the cause of your toothache and provide the necessary treatment, whether it’s a filling, root canal, or another procedure.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown can leave your tooth exposed and sensitive. It’s important to see a dentist quickly to avoid further damage.



• Keep the crown: If your crown has fallen out, try to save it and take it with you to the dentist.
• Protect the tooth: You can apply dental cement, available at most pharmacies, to temporarily cover the exposed tooth.
• See a London dentist: Your emergency dentist will assess whether the crown or filling can be replaced or if further treatment is needed.

When to Contact an Emergency Dentist



Knowing when to contact an emergency dentist is crucial for protecting your oral health. In general, if you experience any of the following, you should seek emergency care:

• Severe pain: Any dental issue causing extreme pain needs immediate attention.
• Excessive bleeding: If your gums, tongue, or teeth are bleeding heavily and don’t stop after applying pressure, this is a dental emergency.
• Swelling or infection: Swelling in your face, gums, or jaw can be a sign of infection, which needs prompt treatment to prevent it from spreading.
• Broken or knocked-out teeth: These types of injuries can lead to permanent damage if not treated quickly.

In all of these cases, contact a London dentist or emergency dentist as soon as possible for the right care.

How to Find an Emergency Dentist

If you experience a dental emergency, it’s important to know where to find help. Many dental clinics offer emergency services or have specific hours for urgent cases. If you don’t already have a dentist in London, you can search online for "emergency dentist near me" to find someone who can provide immediate care.

It’s a good idea to keep the contact details of your regular dentist and a local emergency dentist on hand. This way, you’ll know exactly who to call in the event of a dental emergency.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of a dental emergency.

• Wear a mouthguard: If you play sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect your teeth from injury.
• Avoid hard foods: Biting into hard foods like ice or boiled sweets can crack or break your teeth.
• Maintain good oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups can help prevent issues like decay, which could lead to a dental emergency.

By taking these precautions, you can reduce the likelihood of needing emergency dental care.

Conclusion

A dental emergency can be stressful, but knowing how to respond can make a big difference. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth or a painful toothache, acting quickly can help prevent further damage and relieve discomfort. If you ever find yourself in a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact an emergency dentist or your local London dentist. Immediate care is essential for the best possible outcome, and knowing the right steps can help protect your smile.