Dental emergencies happen suddenly. Knowing how to respond, including where to find immediate professional care, can make all the difference in relieving pain, preventing permanent damage, and protecting your oral health.
Identifying Dental Emergencies
Some situations should never be ignored. These include:
- Severe, persistent, and unrelenting tooth pain
- Loose or knocked-out adult teeth
- Unexplained and/or uncontrolled swelling or bleeding in the gums
- Signs of infection, like pus or fever
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Lost fillings or crowns
- Dental trauma from an accident or sports injury
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
In a dental emergency, the first step is to call your dentist as soon as possible. Describe your symptoms clearly so the team can determine how quickly you need to be seen. If dental pain is accompanied by facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or signs of infection spreading, seek urgent dental or medical care right away. Prompt treatment helps prevent complications and preserves your smile.
If a tooth has been knocked out, handle it by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it, and either place it back in its socket or store it in milk until you reach the dental office. For swelling or pain, applying a cold compress can help reduce discomfort while you wait for care. Always avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, as this can cause tissue irritation.
Timely Emergency Dentistry in Maple Ridge
If you’re in Maple Ridge and dealing with a dental emergency, Dr. Robert Noh and the caring Meadow Ridge Dental team are standing by to help relieve your pain, safeguard your smile, and get you back to your daily routine as quickly as possible.