Emergency Dental Care in Oakdale, PA | Pittsburgh

Every dental emergency is different, but the first few minutes after an injury are often the most important. Acting quickly can prevent tooth loss, infection, or the need for more extensive dental treatment later.

Here’s what to do in the most common situations:

Broken or Chipped Tooth

If you’ve fractured or chipped a tooth:

1. Rinse your mouth with warm water to keep the area clean.

2. Save any tooth fragments if possible and bring them with you to the dentist.

3. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

4. Use dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover jagged edges and protect your soft tissues.

5. Avoid biting on the damaged tooth and eat soft foods until you can see a dentist.

Even a small chipped tooth can expose the tooth’s center or tooth enamel, leading to sensitivity or infection. Treatment options might include tooth-colored composite resin, cosmetic contouring, or a dental crownif the crack extends deeper.

Knocked Out Tooth

A knocked out tooth (avulsed tooth) is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. The chances of saving your natural tooth are highest within the first hour.

1. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part), not the root.

2. If dirty, rinse it gently with water—do not scrub.

3. Try to reinsert it into the tooth socket, holding it in place with gentle pressure.

4. If that’s not possible, keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva.

5. See a dentist as soon as possible—ideally within 30–60 minutes.

If the tooth cannot be saved, dental implants or bridges may be recommended as tooth replacement options.

Severe Tooth Pain or Infection

If your tooth hurts, you may be experiencing deep decay or a tooth infection that requires a root canal.

1. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce bacteria.

2. Take a counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen to alleviate discomfort.

3. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums—it can irritate the tissue.

4. Call for emergency dental care immediately.

If an abscess or swelling develops, it may indicate infection of the tooth’s pulp or connective tissue. In this case, root canal therapy can remove the infected pulp and save your remaining tooth.

Cracked or Split Tooth

A cracked tooth may not always cause pain, but if the crack extends into the root or the pulp, it can lead to serious infection. Avoid chewing on the affected side, rinse your mouth with warm water, and apply a cold compress for swelling.

If you notice a vertical fracture or deep cracks, see a dentist immediately. You may need a dental crown, bonding, or a porcelain veneer, depending on how deep the crack goes.

Broken or Missing Restorations

Losing a dental filling, crown, or bridge can leave your tooth sensitive and vulnerable. You can use denture adhesive or dental wax as a temporary cover, but avoid using super glue or household materials.

• Keep your mouth clean by rinsing gently.

• Avoid chewing on the affected side.

• Schedule an emergency appointment to replace or reattach the restoration.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Cuts, tears, or punctures to your gum tissue, tongue, or lips can cause significant bleeding.

• Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water.

• Apply sterile gauze to apply pressure and stop bleeding.

• Use a cold compress to control swelling.

• If bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes, go to an emergency room or urgent care center.

While these injuries often look alarming, prompt care can prevent infection and protect your overall oral health.