A dental emergency can happen at any time: a fall during a hike at Riverside State Park, a sports injury at a weekend game, or sudden severe pain in the middle of the night. Knowing what to do in those first critical minutes can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. This guide covers the most common dental emergencies and exactly what steps to take.
1. How to Assess Whether It's a Dental Emergency
Not every dental issue requires immediate treatment, but several signs indicate you need to act fast:
- Severe, throbbing pain that does not respond to over-the-counter painkillers
- A tooth that has been knocked out or is very loose
- Visible swelling in the jaw, gums, or face
- Bleeding that will not stop after 15 minutes of pressure
- Signs of infection: fever, pus, or a foul taste in your mouth
2. What to Do Immediately
Knocked-Out Tooth
Pick up the tooth by the crown only. Rinse gently, do not scrub. Try to reinsert it into the socket. If you cannot, store it in milk or saline. Get to our office within 1 to 2 hours. Time is critical. Full knocked-out tooth guide →
Severe Toothache
Rinse with warm salt water. Take over-the-counter pain relief (ibuprofen is most effective for dental pain). Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. Call us immediately, toothaches often indicate infection. Toothache relief options →
Dental Abscess
An abscess is a dental infection that requires urgent professional treatment. Rinse with mild salt water to draw the infection toward the surface. Do not attempt to lance it yourself. Call us immediately. Dental abscess treatment →
Broken Tooth
Rinse your mouth and save any tooth fragments. Apply gauze to any bleeding area for 10 minutes. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum. Call us to arrange a same-day visit. Broken tooth care →
3. ER vs Emergency Dentist
Go to the emergency room if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, uncontrollable bleeding, a suspected broken jaw, or severe facial trauma. For all other dental emergencies, an emergency dentist is the right choice, ERs typically cannot perform dental procedures.
4. How to Prepare for Your Visit
Bring identification, insurance details (if applicable), a list of current medications, and any knocked-out or broken tooth fragments stored in milk. Arrive early to complete any paperwork. If you are in severe pain, let us know when you call and we will prioritize your appointment.
Do Not Wait, Call Now
Our emergency dental team is available 24/7 to help Spokane residents.
Call 509-284-8636