What to Do If You Need an Emergency Dentist: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tooth pain doesn’t wait for business hours. One minute, you’re fine—the next, you’re clutching your jaw in agony. Whether it’s a cracked tooth or sudden swelling, an emergency dentist is your lifeline when things go south fast. Wondering what to do if you need an emergency dentist? Well, this guide walks you through exactly that—so you’re never caught off guard.

What To Do If You Have a Dental Emergency

So, it happened. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked molar or a knocked-out tooth, time is crucial. But first things first—breathe. You’ve got options.

Step 1: Assess the situation

Ask yourself:

• Is there bleeding that won’t stop?
• Is the pain intense and constant?
• Has a tooth been knocked out or loosened?
• Do you see swelling around your face or jaw?

If the answer is yes to any of these, that’s your green light—it’s time to visit a dental clinic that provides emergency dentistry in Redding.

Step 2: Rinse and recover

• If you’ve chipped or broken a tooth, clean your mouth with warm water.
• For a knocked-out tooth, try placing it gently back in its socket. Can’t do that? Keep it in a cup of milk or saliva.
• Avoid touching the root of the tooth. Hold it by the crown (the chewing surface).
• Bleeding? Use clean gauze and press gently but firmly.

Important: Avoid using aspirin directly on gums or aching teeth—it can potentially make your problem worse.

Step 3: Call the professionals

As soon as you’re able, reach out to a dentist in Redding. Even if you think it’s something small, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Pain, swelling, and bleeding don’t just go away on their own, and delaying treatment might make things worse.

What to Do If You Can’t Get to an Emergency Dentist

Sometimes, getting to a dental clinic right away isn’t possible—maybe it’s a holiday, maybe you’re out camping, or maybe you’re stuck waiting for a ride. That doesn’t mean you’re out of luck.

Here’s how to manage while you wait:

1. Pain management

• Use over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
• Stick to the recommended dosage—don’t double up.
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off.

Tip: Avoid lying flat—keep your head elevated to bring down the blood flow to the area and minimize throbbing.

2. Watch what you eat

• Stay away from hot, cold, or sweet foods.
• Eat soft items like yogurt, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes.
• Try not to chew on the side with the injured tooth.

A friend once broke a molar on a corn nut while binge-watching Netflix. She thought it could wait. Two days later, she was in agony—and eating only applesauce. Don’t be like her.

3. Keep your mouth clean

Even if it hurts, you’ve got to keep your mouth as bacteria-free as possible.

• Rinse with warm salt water every few hours.
• Gently brush the surrounding teeth—don’t press too hard.
• Stay away from mouthwash with alcohol—it can sting and slow healing.

4. Temporary fixes

• Use dental wax or sugarless gum to encase the sharp edge of a broken tooth.
• Lost a filling or crown? Temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) can buy you some time.
• For soft tissue injuries (bitten tongue, cheek, or lip), rinse and apply pressure with clean gauze.

When Should You Go to the ER?

Dental emergencies aren’t always black and white. Sometimes, you need medical attention before going to the dentist.

Go to the ER if you:

• Have swelling that affects breathing or swallowing
• Are bleeding heavily and can’t control it
• Have a broken jaw
• Feel dizzy, feverish, or generally unwell.

Remember: it’s okay to seek help. Don’t “tough it out” just because it’s your teeth.

How to Avoid Dental Emergencies (Yes, You Can!)

Let’s be real—accidents happen. But a few smart habits can help protect your teeth in the long term.

• Don’t chew ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels.
• Always wear a mouthguard when taking part in contact sports.
• Try not to use your teeth to open bottles or rip packaging.
• Keep up with regular dental checkups—even if everything feels fine.

One quick visit every six months can help catch problems before they turn into emergencies.

Final Thoughts

Dental pain can’t wait—and neither should you. Don’t suffer in silence. Trust Riverbend Family Dental for urgent care that puts your comfort first. Call now, get seen fast, and leave pain behind. Your smile matters, even in an emergency. Take action today—because relief, reassurance, and expert help are only a phone call away.