Emergency Dental Problems Explained
When to call us right away, what to do in the meantime, and what to expect when you arrive.
Most dental emergencies fall into one of four categories: severe pain, knocked-out teeth, broken teeth or restorations, and swelling or abscess. All warrant a same-day call to our office.
For a knocked-out tooth: pick it up by the crown (not the root), gently rinse, and try to place it back in the socket. If you can't, store it in milk and get to us immediately. The first 30–60 minutes are critical.
For severe pain: rinse with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain relief as labelled, and call us. We hold same-day emergency slots.
For swelling or abscess: this can be serious. Call us right away, and head to an emergency room if breathing or swallowing is affected.
Written by
Dr. Nigel Morgan, DDS
Family, cosmetic and implant dentist · Hendersonville, NC