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

Dental emergencies can strike at any moment—whether it’s a sudden toothache in the middle of the night, a knocked-out tooth during sports, or a chipped tooth while eating. Knowing what to do in these moments can make a big difference in saving your tooth and preventing further complications. If you're ever in such a situation, follow this step-by-step guide to stay calm, act quickly, and find the right care with an Emergency Dentist in Yellowknife.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first step in any emergency is to stay calm. Panicking can make the situation feel worse and delay effective action. Take a deep breath and evaluate the problem. Is it a broken tooth? Severe bleeding? Swelling? The more accurately you can describe the issue, the faster you can receive proper treatment.

Step 2: Control Bleeding or Swelling

If there is bleeding, use clean gauze or a cloth to apply gentle pressure to the area. Bleeding should typically stop within 10–15 minutes. For swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth or cheek to reduce pain and inflammation.

If the bleeding doesn't stop or the swelling becomes severe, it’s time to contact an Emergency Dentist in Yellowknife right away.

Step 3: Save Any Knocked-Out Teeth or Broken Pieces

If a tooth has been knocked out, handle it by the crown (top part), not the root. Rinse it gently with water if dirty, but do not scrub it or remove any tissue. Try placing it back into the socket if possible. If that’s not an option, store it in milk or a saline solution and bring it with you to the dentist immediately. Time is critical—seeing an Emergency Dentist in Yellowknife within 30 minutes increases the chance of saving the tooth.

Step 4: Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief (If Needed)

If you're experiencing severe discomfort, you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, as this can cause tissue damage. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also help relieve minor irritation until you receive professional care.

Step 5: Contact an Emergency Dentist Immediately

Don’t wait to seek help. The sooner you reach out to an Emergency Dentist in Yellowknife, the better your chances of preventing further damage or infection. Many dental clinics, including Somba Ke Family Dental, offer emergency services and can guide you through what to do over the phone until you arrive.

Step 6: Follow Aftercare Instructions

Once treatment is complete, be sure to follow any aftercare instructions provided by your dentist. This may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain foods, or returning for a follow-up appointment. Proper care after the emergency will support faster healing and prevent recurrence.

Dental emergencies can be stressful, but knowing how to respond can protect your health and your smile. For fast, compassionate care when you need it most, trust Somba Ke Family Dental—your reliable choice for an Emergency Dentist in Yellowknife.