• Teeth cannot heal themselves, so it’s unlikely that a toothache will resolve on its own. Some exceptions may apply, such as pain from nearby structures rather than the tooth itself, but it’s essential to see a dentist if you experience any toothache. The pain might be a sign of underlying issues that require professional attention.

• Most hospital emergency rooms are not equipped to handle dental emergencies effectively. Dentists are the go-to professionals for oral problems. However, in cases of a broken or dislocated jaw, uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty breathing, or life-threatening symptoms, visit the ER first for initial care, followed by a dentist’s visit for further treatment.

• It’s crucial to keep a knocked-out tooth moist, but water is not the best option for storage. Rinsing the tooth with water is fine, but storing it in water may damage the tooth’s root surface cells, reducing the chances of successful replantation. Ideally, place the tooth back into its socket, between the gums and cheek, or in milk or a saline solution.

A well-prepared emergency dentistry kit should contain:

• A small container with a lid
• Sterile gloves
• Dressings, gauze pads, and cotton balls
• Dental cement or a similar product
• Mouth topical anesthetic
• Denture adhesive
• Orthodontic wax
• Pain medication (e.g., ibuprofen)
• Ice pack
• Dental floss
• Contact information for our dental practice
• An updated list of your current medical conditions and medications

Toothaches can be incredibly painful, making it difficult to sleep. To alleviate discomfort and improve sleep, consider these steps:

• Elevate your head with several pillows to prevent excessive blood flow to the painful area.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever (e.g., ibuprofen or acetaminophen) following the recommended dosage.
• Apply a cold compress to the side of your face, but avoid leaving it on for too long before sleeping.

• Even if your chipped tooth doesn’t hurt, it’s important to schedule a visit with your emergency dentist in Wrentham as soon as possible, ideally within a day or two of the injury. Our team can assess the extent of the damage and recommend necessary steps, such as applying bonding to protect your oral tissues and prevent future breakage.

• Yes, knocking out a baby tooth prematurely constitutes a dental emergency. The nearby tissues may be damaged and require attention. Additionally, early removal of baby teeth can impact the development of adult teeth. Seek care as soon as possible, even if reattaching the baby tooth is not possible, as our team will address mouth damage and provide guidance on managing the situation.

• Avoid using superglue to repair broken dentures. Superglue often contains toxic chemicals that can lead to illness or allergic reactions. It may also alter the taste of food. Instead, bring your broken dentures to us, and we will work to restore them as quickly as possible, ensuring their longevity in a moist environment.