When a dental emergency strikes—whether it’s a severe toothache, a broken tooth, or sudden swelling—every moment counts. Acting quickly and taking the right steps before you see an emergency dentist can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth, controlling pain effectively, and preventing further complications.
At BOOM Smiles, Hoboken, we want you to be prepared. Here’s your complete guide to what you should—and shouldn’t—do before arriving at our office for emergency dental care.
Dental problems rarely get better on their own. In fact, delays often allow the situation to worsen, leading to more complex treatment and higher costs. The right immediate actions can:
Following these essential steps will help you protect your oral health until you can get professional care:
Call BOOM Smiles Immediately: The first thing you should do is contact us for guidance and to arrange an emergency dental appointment. The sooner we see you, the faster we can relieve your pain and address the problem.
Control Bleeding: If your mouth is bleeding due to trauma or injury, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth. Change it every 10–15 minutes until the bleeding stops.
Manage Pain and Swelling: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek in 10-minute intervals. This reduces swelling and helps ease discomfort.
Save the Tooth or Fragments: If a tooth has been knocked out, handle it by the crown (the white part), not the root. Gently rinse with water if dirty, and try to place it back in its socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or a tooth preservation kit until you reach our office. Learn more about essential dental first aid tips.
Keep the Area Clean: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to remove debris and reduce bacteria. This is especially helpful for toothaches or abscesses.
Certain actions can make your dental emergency worse. Avoid these common mistakes:
Don’t Ignore the Problem: Hoping the pain will go away is a dangerous gamble. Infections can spread quickly, and small cracks or chips can become major problems.
Don’t Use Home Remedies That Can Harm: Placing aspirin directly on gums or teeth can cause chemical burns. Avoid using sharp objects to dislodge debris—this can cause injury.
Don’t Eat or Drink Certain Foods: Stay away from extremely hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks. They can trigger pain or worsen sensitivity.
Don’t Delay Treatment Because of Anxiety: We understand dental visits can cause stress, but delaying can make things far more complicated. At BOOM Smiles, we offer gentle, compassionate care to help you feel at ease. Explore our sedation options designed to ease dental anxiety and make treatment more comfortable.
Don’t Try to “Tough It Out”: Pain is your body’s way of signaling something is wrong. Waiting too long can turn a simple treatment into a major procedure.
© BOOM Smiles 2021
