A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it, during a family dinner, at work, or even while brushing your teeth. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken crown, knowing how to react in the moment can make a big difference in the outcome. At Oshawa Dental Arts, we prioritize urgent dental care and aim to see emergency cases the same day whenever possible.
1. Toothache or Sudden Pain
Toothaches are one of the most common reasons patients seek emergency dental care in Oshawa. They can be caused by decay, infection, trauma, or a cracked tooth.
What to Do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Use dental floss to remove any food trapped between teeth.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (never place aspirin directly on the tooth).
- Call your dentist immediately if the pain persists beyond 24 hours.
When to See a Dentist:
Severe, persistent pain may indicate an infection or abscess that could spread if left untreated. Contact Oshawa Dental Arts as soon as possible.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth gets knocked out due to trauma or injury, time is critical. Immediate action could mean the difference between saving or losing the tooth.
What to Do:
- Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root).
- Rinse it gently with water—do not scrub.
- Try placing it back into the socket; if that’s not possible, keep it in milk or between your cheek and gum.
- Visit your emergency dentist in Oshawa within 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
3. Broken or Chipped Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth can range from a minor cosmetic issue to a painful dental emergency.
What to Do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Save any pieces of the tooth, if possible.
- Apply gauze to stop bleeding and use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Avoid chewing on the affected side.
Your Oshawa dentist may recommend bonding, a crown, or root canal therapy depending on the severity.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown can expose sensitive tooth structures and increase the risk of further damage.
What to Do:
- If possible, keep the crown and bring it to your dental appointment.
- Use temporary dental cement (available at pharmacies) to protect the exposed area until you can get to the clinic.
- Avoid sticky or hard foods.
Don’t wait—delaying treatment may result in pain or the need for more extensive dental work.
5. Abscess or Swelling
A dental abscess is a serious condition caused by bacterial infection and often leads to swelling, throbbing pain, and fever. Left untreated, it can spread to other parts of your body.
What to Do:
- Rinse with warm salt water several times a day.
- Take pain relievers as needed.
- Do not attempt to pop the abscess.
- Call your Oshawa emergency dentist immediately.
We offer same-day appointments whenever possible to address abscesses and infections before they escalate.
6. Soft Tissue Injuries (Cheeks, Gums, Lips, or Tongue)
Accidental bites, falls, or sports injuries can lead to cuts or bruises inside the mouth.
What to Do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Apply pressure to the bleeding area with clean gauze.
- Use a cold compress to control swelling.
- If bleeding doesn’t stop within 10–15 minutes, go to the nearest emergency dental clinic or hospital.
How Oshawa Dental Arts Handles Emergencies
At Oshawa Dental Arts, our team led by Dr. Steven Huang and Dr. David Smith is ready to help in any dental emergency. We understand that emergencies can be stressful, which is why we:
- Prioritize same-day emergency appointments.
- Offer compassionate, judgment-free care.
- Provide clear treatment options and costs upfront.
- Accept most insurance plans, including CDCP.
Whether you’re a long-time patient or visiting us for the first time, we’ll make every effort to see you quickly and get you out of pain.
Tips to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While some accidents are unavoidable, there are ways to reduce your risk:
- Wear a mouthguard during sports activities.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods or objects like ice, pens, or fingernails.
- Maintain regular dental check-ups to catch small issues before they become emergencies.
- Address tooth pain or sensitivity early instead of waiting.
Contact Oshawa Dental Arts for Emergency Dental Care
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Oshawa, don’t wait. Contact Oshawa Dental Arts at (905) 725-9712 or book online. Walk-ins are welcome, and our caring team is here to provide fast, effective treatment so you can get back to smiling comfortably.
