Few things are as uncomfortable or as stressful as sudden tooth pain. A toothache or dental emergency can happen at any time, and knowing how to respond can make all the difference in protecting your smile and preventing further damage. At Most Valuable Smiles, we provide same-day emergency care to give you relief when you need it most. Here’s what you should know.
While you wait to get to Most Valuable Smiles, here are some steps you can take at home to ease pain and protect your tooth:
For toothaches:
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.
For swelling:
Apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce pain and inflammation.
For knocked-out teeth:
Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it with water, and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva until you see us.
For broken teeth or lost fillings/crowns:
Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum to prevent cuts inside your mouth.
Not every dental problem requires an immediate trip to the dentist, but certain situations should be treated as urgent.
Call us right away if you experience:
A severe or persistent toothache
A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
A knocked-out tooth
Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw
Bleeding that doesn’t stop,
Lost fillings, crowns, or dental restorations.
If you’re unsure, it’s always better to call. Our team can guide you on whether you need immediate care.
Some emergencies are unavoidable, but many can be prevented with regular care. Visiting your dentist every 6 months helps catch problems before they become urgent. Wearing a mouthguard during sports, avoiding chewing hard objects, and practicing good oral hygiene can also lower your risk.
Ignoring a toothache or delaying treatment for a dental emergency can lead to bigger problems, such as infections, abscesses, or permanent damage. Acting quickly gives us the best chance to save your tooth and restore your comfort.
At Most Valuable Smiles, we offer same-day appointments for emergencies, because we know dental pain doesn’t wait for a convenient time.