Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies arise unexpectedly, causing discomfort and concern. At Dental Associates of NJ in Bayonne, Plainfield, and Elizabeth New Jersey,  Steven Reff, DDS, understands the importance of having access to quality care during urgent dental situations. If you experience a dental emergency, call the office and seek help immediately. You can also use this website to book future follow-up appointments. 

What constitutes a dental emergency? 

Dental emergencies include situations where there is severe pain, bleeding, or trauma to the mouth. Examples of common dental emergencies include:

• A knocked-out tooth
• A fractured tooth
• Sudden and severe tooth pain
• A tooth abscess
• Broken or lost restoration (crown or bridge)
• Uncontrollable bleeding from the mouth

Really, any dental issue causing immediate discomfort can qualify as a dental emergency.

What should I do in case of a knocked-out tooth? 

If a tooth gets knocked out, you must act swiftly. Rinse the tooth gently with water (do not scrub) and try to place it back into the socket. If that's not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or saliva and seek immediate dental care.

With prompt care, Dr. Reff may be able to restore your teeth. 

Can I manage dental emergencies at home? 

Trying to handle dental emergencies at home is not recommended. Even for mild tooth pain, there may be serious underlying issues. It’s important to see your provider as soon as possible. 

Depending on the emergency, you can do a few things at home before your appointment:

Tooth pain

Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the tooth to ensure no debris is causing the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help temporarily alleviate discomfort. Be sure to tell Dr. Reff about any medicines you’ve taken. 

Restoration falls out 

If a crown or bridge falls out, keep it intact and bring it to your dental appointment. In the meantime, use dental wax to cover any sharp edges. You can also use dental cement to temporarily reattach a crown.

When should I seek immediate professional care for a dental emergency? 

If you're experiencing severe pain, excessive bleeding, a knocked-out tooth, or any issue that causes significant distress, contact Dental Associates of NJ right away. The dental team is here to provide timely assistance and alleviate your discomfort.

Call the office if you aren’t sure that your case is an emergency. The friendly staff can guide you on the next steps you should take. 

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

While some emergencies are unavoidable, you can reduce the risk by:

• Wearing mouthguards during contact sports
• Practicing good oral hygiene
• Scheduling regular dental checkups
• Avoiding chewing on hard objects

Seeking care when you first start to notice pain can also prevent emergencies. Early treatment can help you avoid complications like abscesses or infections.

If you have a dental emergency, contact Dental Associates of NJ right away. Call the office or check the online schedule for upcoming appointments.