Dental emergency? Here's what to do.
dentalcare
Cracked tooth, knocked-out tooth or lost crown? Here's what to do first, from your South Surrey dentist.
A dental emergency is stressful, especially at midnight. Here are answers to the questions we hear most from families in South Surrey and White Rock.
What should I do first in a dental emergency?
Call your dentist right away and explain what happened, when it happened, and how you feel now. At Morgan Heights Dental Centre, you can reach us at Call 604-535-8835.
What if a tooth gets knocked out?
Act quickly, because timing matters:
- Pick the tooth up by the crown, never the root.
- Rinse it gently with tap water.
- Put it back in its socket without forcing it.
- If you can't, keep it in milk.
- Call a dentist right away. Results are best when a tooth is reimplanted within about 30 minutes.
Never put a baby tooth back in.
How do I handle a bad toothache?
Rinse gently, floss out any trapped food, and use a cold compress. Don't place aspirin against the gums.
When is swelling an emergency?
Never ignore swelling in your face or gum, especially with fever, pus, or trouble opening your mouth. Call 9-1-1 if swelling affects your breathing or swallowing, spreads quickly toward your eye or neck, or comes with severe illness.
What if I broke a tooth but feel no pain?
Still call. Some cracks run below the surface and can't be seen.
What if a crown falls out?
Skip the household glue and keep the crown, so your dentist can protect the tooth. Our same-day CEREC crowns guide explains how crowns work, and crown or implant? Understanding your options for a damaged tooth covers what comes next.
What if bleeding won't stop after an injury?
Press clean gauze firmly on the area for fifteen minutes. If it won't slow, seek urgent care.
We're your family dentist in South Surrey, with free parking, Saturday hours, and more than 30 years caring for the community. You can also book online at morganheightsdental.com.