Dental emergencies never come with a warning sign. At first, everything looks fine, but at the second moment, you’re in excruciating pain or holding a broken tooth in your hand. It’s a terrifying feeling when you don’t know what’s happening or how to stop it.
The anxiety of not knowing what to do can make the situation feel even worse. If you’ve ever searched for Emergency dentistry in Lethbridge, you’re already in panic mode, trying to take back control. But being prepared makes all the difference.
This guide talks about the top dental emergencies and how to take quick action before things get out of control.
5 Dental Emergencies You Should Know
1. Severe Toothache
A persistent toothache is not only irritating, but it may be a symptom of an infection, abscess, or nerve injury. The aching might seem dull, sharp, or even a stabbing pain, and it can increase with variations in temperature or pressure.
What to do:
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to aid in reducing the swelling. Don’t have hot or cold things to eat. Apply a cold compress to your cheek for relief. You should see a dentist near you immediately if the pain doesn’t cease after more than a day or increases.
2. Chipped or Broken Tooth
Whether it’s from biting down on ice or a sports injury, a chipped tooth can be painful and increase your risk of infection or decay. Even small chips can expose nerve endings or sharp edges.
What to do:
Rinse gently with warm water and save any pieces of the tooth. Cover any sharp edges with dental wax if available. For a chipped tooth emergency, avoid chewing on that side and schedule a dental visit immediately.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
Time is critical with a knocked-out adult tooth. The first 30 minutes are your best chance to save it. Always handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. Check out what to do if you have knocked out tooth.
What to do:
Rinse the tooth gently (don’t scrub), then try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, keep it in milk or a tooth-preserving solution until you reach a dentist in Lethbridge. Immediate action improves the chance of successful reattachment.
4. Cracked or Broken Dental Work
Crowns, bridges, and fillings can break or fall out, exposing the underlying tooth to bacteria and sensitivity. This often leads to sudden discomfort and potential infection.
What to do:
Rinse your mouth to remove debris. If a crown falls off, try placing it back temporarily with dental cement from a pharmacy. Avoid chewing on the affected side and visit a professional as soon as possible.
5. Soft Tissue Injuries
Accidents or sports impacts can cause your lips, gums, cheeks, or tongue to bleed or swell. These injuries can appear minor but may hide deeper damage or lead to infection.
What to do:
Clean the area gently with warm water. Apply a clean gauze pad or cloth to stop bleeding. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Seek dental care if bleeding doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure or if pain increases.
What Should You Do During a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency can leave you frozen in fear, but the right steps can make a big difference. Knowing what to do during a dental emergency gives you a head start in protecting your health and saving your teeth. But being prepared in advance is even better.
Be Prepared: Build Your Dental Emergency Kit
Here’s a table of helpful tools to include in a dental emergency kit that complements any of the issues mentioned above:
| Item | Purpose | Why It Matters |
| Dental wax | Covers sharp edges from braces or broken teeth | Prevents cuts and ulcers inside the mouth |
| Cotton pellets or swabs | Dry the area before applying the temporary material | Helps with the clean application of dental cement or ointments |
| Mirror with light | Improves visibility of back teeth or injuries | Let you spot hidden cracks or swelling early |
| Clove oil | Natural remedy to reduce toothache pain temporarily | Offers short-term relief before seeing a dentist |
| Orthodontic silicone | Temporary fix for broken brackets or wires | Helps avoid mouth injuries from loose braces |
| Emergency contact card | Dentist’s phone number, clinic address, and insurance details | Reduces panic and speeds up access to care in an emergency |
These supplies are not a replacement for professional treatment, but they buy you time, reduce pain, and help prevent further damage until you get care from a dentist in Lethbridge.
One Minute Can Change Everything
Dental emergencies are unsettling, but the worst thing you can do is panic. Whether it’s a broken crown or a knocked-out tooth, quick and informed action improves your chances of full recovery. Find a dentist near you who offers emergency services so you don’t waste precious time during a crisis.
Don’t Wait — Protect Your Teeth Now
The longer you delay treatment, the higher the risk of permanent damage or expensive procedures. Knowing what to do today can save your smile tomorrow.
Book an emergency exam now with Absolute Dental and feel the difference preparedness makes when it matters most.