_{Experiencing a dental emergency such as a cracked tooth, swelling or a knocked out tooth? Learn what to do immediately and when to seek urgent dental care.}

_{A dental emergency never waits for a convenient time. Whether it strikes during a weekend getaway, a late-night snack or a friendly game of soccer, the sudden pain or damage can be alarming and what do most people do first? They turn to Google for help.}

_{At MI Dental, we are here to guide you through those panic moments with clear, practical steps you can take immediately and when to call in the professionals.}

_{Common Dental Emergencies & What You Can Do}

_{1. Cracked or Broken Tooth}

_{What It Feels Like: Sudden sharp pain, sensitivity to temperature, visible crack or missing part of the tooth.
What To Do:}

• _{Rinse your mouth with warm water.}
  
• _{Apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.}
  
• _{Avoid chewing on that side.}
  
• _{Call your dentist ASAP, the longer it’s left untreated, the worse it can get.}
  

_{2. Swelling on the Face or Neck}

_{What It Means: This could indicate an abscess or serious infection.
If swelling is causing restricted breathing or difficulty swallowing, go to the ER immediately.
Otherwise:}

• _{Rinse gently with saltwater.}
  
• _{Apply a cold compress.}
  
• _{Do not try to drain the swelling yourself.}
  
• _{Call your dentist right away.}
  

_{3. Tooth Knocked Out (Avulsed Tooth)}

_{What To Do:}

• _{Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root).}
  
• _{Do not scrub or remove tissue fragments.}
  
• _{If possible, gently place it back in the socket.}
  
• _{If not, place it in cold milk or inside your cheek (not for children).}
  
• _{See a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.}
  

_{4. Broken Filling or Crown}

_{What You Might Feel: A sudden dip in your tooth surface, discomfort while chewing or a sharp edge.
Temporary Relief:}

• _{Dental wax or sugar-free gum can cover a sharp area.}
  
• _{Avoid sticky or hard foods.}
  
• _{Book a dental appointment as soon as possible to prevent further damage.}
  

_{5. Loose Crown or Bridge}

_{What To Do:}

• _{If it falls out, clean the crown gently.}
  
• _{Use a bit of toothpaste or denture adhesive to place it temporarily back in place.}
  
• _{Do not force it.}
  
• _{Bring it with you to your appointment.}
  
• _{Contact your dentist immediately.}
  

_{6. Severe Toothache}

_{Home Relief Tips:}

• _{Rinse with warm saltwater.}
  
• _{Use a cold compress for swelling.}
  
• _{Take over-the-counter pain medication (as directed).
  Avoid:}
  
• _{Applying aspirin directly on the gum, it can cause burns.
  Important:
  Toothaches can signal serious problems like infection or deep decay, get it checked out quickly.}
  

_{7. Injury from Contact Sports}

_{Includes: Chipped tooth, loosened teeth, soft tissue injuries.
First Steps:}

• _{Stop any bleeding with gauze.}
  
• _{Cold compress for swelling.}
  
• _{If a tooth is knocked out, refer to instructions above.
  Tip: Always wear a custom-fitted mouthguard during contact sports. Prevention is key!}
  

_{When Should You Call a Dentist?}

_{If you are unsure, always err on the side of caution.
Dental emergencies can escalate quickly and delaying care could mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth.}

_{If you are experiencing any of the above, call MI Dental right away at 519-894-9444.}

 _{We offer same-day emergency appointments and are here to help relieve your pain and protect your smile.}

_{When to Skip the Dentist and Go Straight to the Emergency Room}

• _{Swelling that impairs breathing or swallowing}
  
• _{Trauma with uncontrolled bleeding}
  
• _{Jaw fractures}
  
• _{High fever with facial swelling (could indicate systemic infection)}
  

_{Final Thought}

_{Dental emergencies are stressful but you are not alone. With prompt action and the right support, most situations can be managed effectively. At MI Dental, we are ready to step in when you need us the most. Whether it’s a midnight molar mishap or a knocked-out tooth on game day, we are just a phone call away.}

_{Keep our number handy and remember: timely care saves teeth.}