What to Do in a Dental Emergency: Step-by-Step Guide

What to Do in a Dental Emergency: Step-by-Step Guide

Dental Emergency Instructions

  1. Severe Toothache
    • Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean it.
    • Use dental floss to remove any trapped food.
    • Avoid putting aspirin or other painkillers directly on the gums.
    • Apply a cold compress outside your cheek to reduce swelling.
    • Contact North Texas Family Dental for an emergency appointment.
  2. Knocked-Out Tooth
    • Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root.
    • If dirty, rinse gently with water—do not scrub or remove any tissue fragments.
    • Try to place the tooth back into the socket if possible, holding it in place with gentle pressure.
    • If you can’t reinsert it, store the tooth in a container with milk or your saliva to keep it moist.
    • Get to the dentist immediately — the sooner, the better (ideally within 30 minutes).
  3. Chipped or Broken Teeth
    • Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
    • Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
    • Save any broken pieces of tooth and bring them with you to the dentist.
    • Avoid chewing on the affected side.
    • Call the office for guidance and to schedule a prompt evaluation.
  4. Lost Filling or Crown
    • If possible, retrieve the filling or crown and keep it safe.
    • Use dental cement (available at drugstores) to temporarily reattach a crown if comfortable.
    • Avoid chewing on that side and keep the area clean.
    • See your dentist as soon as possible for a permanent fix.
  5. Abscess or Infection
    • Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to help reduce bacteria.
    • Take over-the-counter pain medication if needed.
    • Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums.
    • Call immediately for emergency treatment—abscesses can spread infection and cause serious health risks.
  6. Injury to Soft Tissue
    • Rinse the mouth with warm water.
    • Apply pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to stop bleeding.
    • Use a cold compress externally for swelling.
    • If bleeding doesn’t stop within 10 minutes, seek emergency care.
  7. Object Stuck Between Teeth
    • Try to gently remove the object with dental floss.
    • Do not use sharp objects like pins or needles.
    • If unsuccessful, call your dentist for assistance.
  8. Jaw Injury
    • Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling.
    • Avoid moving the jaw and seek emergency care if you experience severe pain, deformity, or difficulty opening the mouth.

When Should You Call North Texas Family Dental?

If you experience any of the above emergencies, call us immediately. Our team is trained to handle urgent dental issues with care and efficiency. Even if you are unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out.

  • Prevent worsening infection or damage
  • Increase the chances of saving your natural tooth
  • Reduce pain and discomfort
  • Shorten recovery time

Our priority is your health and comfort. We offer flexible scheduling and strive to see emergency patients promptly.

What to Expect During Your Emergency Visit

  • We will conduct a thorough exam, including X-rays if necessary.
  • Our dentists will diagnose the problem and explain your treatment options clearly.
  • We’ll focus on relieving pain and stabilizing your condition immediately.
  • Depending on the issue, we may provide temporary solutions and schedule follow-ups for comprehensive care.
  • Our friendly staff will guide you through aftercare instructions and answer all your questions.

Our goal is to make your emergency visit as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Tips for Preventing Dental Emergencies

  • Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings to catch problems early.
  • Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities.
  • Avoid chewing hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, or pens.
  • Don’t use teeth as tools to open packages or bottles.
  • Practice good oral hygiene to reduce risk of decay and infection.
  • Treat dental issues promptly—don’t delay seeing the dentist if you notice pain or sensitivity.

Trust North Texas Family Dental for Emergency Care

Your dental health matters every day, but especially during emergencies. North Texas Family Dental is proud to provide expert, compassionate emergency dental care for families throughout the community. We combine state-of-the-art technology with a gentle approach to get you feeling better fast.

Don’t wait in pain or uncertainty—contact us at the first sign of a dental emergency.

Schedule Your Emergency Appointment Today

If you or a loved one faces a dental emergency, call North Texas Family Dental now at [phone number] or use our online appointment request to get fast, reliable care. Our experienced team is here to restore your smile and peace of mind.

Want to know what we can do for you?

What our patients say

4.8
Based on 296 reviews
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Karah Morgan
21:52 28 Sep 24
I couldn’t recommend this dental office enough. I have seen so many dentists in the last 4 years trying to fix my situation. I was always met with judgement and never kindness until I found Dr.khan and his team of lovely assistants. He took his time and truly wanted to work with me & not just want to take out all my teeth. They worked with me with financing which I never thought would be possible. dr.khan and everyone involved have truly given me my life & my confidence back. If you’re reading this because you’re trying to find a dentist, please don’t go to those corporate places that don’t care about you. This is truly a family dental office and I felt more taken care of than I ever have.
tony vanwinkle
22:37 09 Sep 24
Julienne is fantastic. Very caring and professional!
Hashim Mamoon
20:31 09 Sep 24
clotilda Chimwaza
23:20 28 Aug 24
Delaney Phillips
20:46 28 Aug 24
Everyone at the office was very kind! My hygienist today explained everything in detail and talked to me like a friend not just another patient.
I enjoyed my visit!!
Misty Holmes
06:35 24 Aug 24
I came in for a consultation to talk with Dr. Khan about some possible options. I feel the service I received from him was great, he exceeded what I was expecting. I felt he took the time to explain my options. Looking forward to moving forward here soon. So far I’d recommend his practice.
Jesus Brantner
15:11 09 Jul 24
First time appointment at North Texas Family Dental! The entire experience went well. I had a general exam, cleaning, I had several questions about a missing tooth and possible implant. The service I received here was great and exceeded my expectations. Good service all around and I’d highly recommend them!
Jonathan Beck
16:59 25 May 24
Losing teeth caused me to lose a lot of my confidence. I was anxious about the cost of replacing them when I came to this office. However, the staff was incredibly supportive and made it affordable for me to get the dental work I needed. Thanks to them, I will soon have a restored smile and regain my confidence.
TS R
18:04 09 May 24
If you’re hesitate I’m here to share my experience. Neisha is amazing wonderful assistant, great customer service! Pretty smile, very outgoing personality. Dr. Khan did everything above and beyond to make sure I was happy and satisfied. The wait time was bare minimum and the front office staff was excellent! I would definitely recommend to family and friends.
Mdsark Sark
12:56 19 Sep 22
Greeted with a welcoming smile from the most caring staff! Dr Khan is amazing! Has gentle hands and a huge heart! So thankful to have found this dentist office.
Steve Garner
22:56 13 Sep 22
My wife and I drive from Sherman Texas to visit this office because we love the Hygienist Cassie. She has cleaned both our teeth for 15 years. Today I had a crown done. Best dental experience ever. Zero pain. Awesome communication from Dentist and the staff is very friendly. We will continue making the 50 mile trip to do business here.
Whitney Laymance
01:38 12 Aug 22
Dr. Kahn was amazing, he was really kind to me and did amazing managing my anxiety and making sure that I finally get everything taken care of. I was in some immense pain from a previous dentist not doing the work properly. So I am super thankful and grateful I finally found an amazing dentist. He even called to check on me after my procedure it is a great office
Christian Conner
00:34 22 Jun 22
This is the best experience I have ever had. They took their time, explained, and made me feel like my time was important. They are very reasonable with their prices. The office dog, IS THE BEST! If you need a good, trustworthy dentist who will listen and HELP! This is your place.

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