A dental emergency can strike without warning. A sudden crack while eating. A throbbing ache that wakes you at three in the morning. A tooth knocked clean out during a weekend football match.
These situations are stressful, but they are also more common than most people realise. The good news is that most dental emergencies are entirely treatable, especially when you act quickly and know the right steps to take.
Staying calm is half the battle. Knowing what to do before you reach the dental chair can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
This guide walks you through the most common dental emergencies, explains what to do immediately, and helps you understand when professional care is needed. For same-day care, our team of emergency dentists is ready to help.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation involving the teeth, gums, or mouth that requires immediate professional attention. This includes severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, trauma to the teeth or jaw, and infections that are spreading.
Not every dental problem is an emergency. A small chip with no pain, mild sensitivity to cold, or a slightly loose filling can usually wait for a routine appointment. However, certain signs tell you that waiting is not an option.
Urgent vs Non-Urgent Dental Issues
| Urgent – Seek Same-Day Care | Non-Urgent – Book Routine Appointment |
|---|---|
| Severe, constant tooth pain | Mild or occasional sensitivity |
| Knocked-out or displaced tooth | Small cosmetic chip |
| Facial swelling with fever | Slight gum tenderness |
| Uncontrolled bleeding | Minor bleeding when flossing |
| Broken tooth with exposed nerve | Staining or discolouration |
Timing matters enormously. A knocked-out tooth has the best chance of survival if reimplanted within 30 minutes. An untreated abscess can spread infection to other parts of the body within hours. The sooner you act, the better the outcome.
When to Visit A&E Instead of the Dentist
Go to A&E if you have a suspected jaw fracture, severe bleeding that will not stop after 20 minutes of firm pressure, large facial swelling affecting your ability to breathe or swallow, or a high fever combined with dental symptoms. For all other dental emergencies, an emergency dentist is better equipped to help.
Severe Tooth Pain – When It's an Emergency
Toothache is one of the most common reasons patients seek emergency dental care. While mild discomfort can sometimes wait, severe tooth pain that is constant, throbbing, or radiating to your jaw and ear needs prompt attention.
Common causes include deep decay reaching the nerve, a cracked tooth, an abscess forming at the root, or an infection in the gum tissue surrounding a tooth. Pain that wakes you from sleep, makes it impossible to eat, or is accompanied by swelling should be treated as an emergency.
Immediate Steps for Severe Tooth Pain
- •Take ibuprofen or paracetamol as directed on the packaging
- •Rinse gently with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water)
- •Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 10 to 15 minutes
- •Avoid very hot, very cold, or sugary foods and drinks
- •Do not place aspirin directly on the gum – this causes chemical burns
Over-the-counter painkillers can help manage discomfort in the short term, but they do not treat the underlying cause. If the pain returns or worsens, this is a clear sign that professional treatment is needed. Delaying care allows the problem to progress and may lead to more complex treatment later.
Knocked-Out Tooth – Every Minute Counts
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. If you act within 30 minutes, there is a strong chance the tooth can be successfully reimplanted. After an hour, the chances drop significantly.
What to Do Immediately
- Find the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the white part). Never touch the root.
- If dirty, rinse the tooth very gently under cold running water for no more than 10 seconds. Do not scrub, scrape, or dry it.
- Try to place the tooth back into the socket. Bite down gently on a clean cloth to hold it in place.
- If you cannot reinsert it, place the tooth in a small container of cold milk or saline solution. Keep it moist at all times.
- Get to an emergency dentist as quickly as possible – ideally within 30 minutes.
The root surface contains living cells that are essential for reattachment. Keeping the tooth moist in milk preserves these cells far better than water. Never store a knocked-out tooth in tissue or let it dry out.
At the dental practice, the dentist will reimplant the tooth, splint it to the neighbouring teeth for stability, and monitor healing over the following weeks.
Broken, Cracked, or Chipped Tooth
Teeth can break from biting hard foods, trauma, grinding, or weakened structure from previous decay. The severity ranges from a tiny cosmetic chip to a major fracture exposing the nerve. Broken tooth repair options depend on the extent of the damage.
Assessing the Severity
- •Minor chip: No pain, smooth edges – can wait a day or two for a routine appointment
- •Moderate crack: Sensitivity to temperature, visible line in tooth – see a dentist soon
- •Severe break: Exposed nerve, sharp pain, bleeding – seek emergency care immediately
Immediate Steps
- •Rinse your mouth with warm water
- •Save any broken pieces in a clean container
- •Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
- •Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your tongue and cheeks
- •Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed
Even small chips deserve professional attention. A tiny crack can allow bacteria into the inner layers of the tooth, leading to decay or infection over time. Treatment options include bonding, veneers, crowns, or root canal treatment depending on the damage.
Dental Abscess – A Serious Infection
A dental abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection. It can form at the tip of the tooth root (periapical abscess) or in the gum tissue alongside the tooth (periodontal abscess). An abscess will not go away on its own and always requires professional treatment.
Warning Signs of a Dental Abscess
- •Intense, throbbing pain that may radiate to the jaw, ear, or neck
- •Swelling in the face, cheek, or under the jaw
- •A visible lump on the gum that may be draining pus
- •Fever and generally feeling unwell
- •A foul taste in the mouth
- •Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing
A dental abscess is a genuine medical emergency. If the infection spreads, it can affect the airway, enter the bloodstream, or reach other organs. This is rare, but it highlights why prompt treatment is essential.
While waiting for your appointment, rinse gently with warm salt water to help draw the infection towards the surface. Take pain relief as directed. Do not apply heat to the swollen area.
Antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection, but they cannot cure an abscess on their own. The dentist needs to drain the abscess and treat the source of infection, which may involve root canal treatment or extraction.
Lost Filling or Loose Crown
A filling that falls out or a crown that comes loose leaves the underlying tooth exposed and vulnerable. Without the protective covering, the tooth is at risk of further decay, sensitivity, and damage. Loose filling repair should be arranged promptly to avoid complications.
Temporary At-Home Solutions
- •Apply temporary dental cement (available from pharmacies) to protect the exposed area
- •If a crown has come off, try placing it back over the tooth using dental cement or denture adhesive – never use superglue
- •Sugar-free gum can be pressed into a cavity as a very short-term measure
- •Avoid chewing on the affected side
- •Keep the area clean with gentle rinsing
These are temporary fixes only. The longer a tooth remains unprotected, the greater the risk of bacteria entering and causing decay or infection. Your dentist will assess the tooth, clean the area, and place a new filling or re-cement the crown.
Wisdom Tooth Pain and Pericoronitis
Wisdom teeth are the last to come through and often do not have enough room to emerge properly. When a wisdom tooth is partially erupted, the flap of gum tissue covering it can trap food and bacteria, leading to a painful condition called pericoronitis.
Signs of infection around wisdom teeth include throbbing pain at the back of the jaw, swelling, difficulty opening the mouth, a bad taste, and sometimes fever. These symptoms can escalate quickly and may require urgent care.
Home Care for Temporary Relief
- •Rinse with warm salt water several times a day
- •Gently clean around the wisdom tooth with a soft toothbrush
- •Take ibuprofen for pain and inflammation
- •Avoid crunchy or hard foods that may irritate the area
When infection keeps returning or the tooth is impacted, extraction becomes the most effective long-term solution. Read our complete guide on wisdom tooth pain for detailed information on causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Gum Infections and Swelling
Not all gum problems are emergencies. Mild bleeding when brushing is common and often a sign of gingivitis, which can be managed with improved oral hygiene and professional cleaning. However, a genuine gum infection is a different matter entirely.
A serious gum infection may present with painful, red, swollen gums, pus between the teeth, a persistent bad taste, loose teeth, or gums that are pulling away from the teeth. If swelling is increasing or you feel unwell, seek same-day care.
Managing Swelling Before Your Appointment
- •Rinse gently with warm salt water
- •Apply a cold compress externally
- •Continue brushing gently, including around the affected area
- •Take anti-inflammatory pain relief
Professional treatment is essential for gum infections. Our gum infection treatment options are available for same-day care. Untreated gum infections can lead to bone loss and tooth loss, so early intervention is always the best approach.
Bleeding After Extraction or Injury
Some bleeding after a tooth extraction is perfectly normal. You may notice a pinkish tinge to your saliva for 24 to 48 hours. However, heavy or persistent bleeding that fills your mouth or soaks through gauze within minutes is not normal and needs attention.
How to Control Bleeding at Home
- •Bite down firmly on a clean gauze pad for 20 minutes without checking
- •If gauze is unavailable, use a dampened (non-herbal) tea bag – tannic acid helps clotting
- •Sit upright and avoid lying flat
- •Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw for 24 hours
- •Avoid hot drinks and alcohol
If bleeding continues after 30 minutes of firm pressure, or if you feel dizzy or lightheaded, contact your dentist or seek emergency care. Signs of complications include increasing pain after the first few days, a foul taste, or fever.
Objects Stuck Between Teeth or in Gums
Food debris, popcorn husks, small bones, and other objects can become lodged between teeth or embedded in the gum tissue. While this might seem minor, a trapped object can cause pain, swelling, and eventually infection if left in place.
Safe Removal Techniques
- •Try gentle flossing around the area – use a back-and-forth motion rather than snapping the floss in
- •Rinse vigorously with warm water
- •An interdental brush may help dislodge stubborn debris
What NOT to Use
Never use pins, needles, safety pins, or other sharp metal objects to remove something stuck between your teeth. These can damage the gum tissue, chip enamel, or push the object deeper. If gentle flossing does not work, see your dentist.
Soft Tissue Injuries (Lips, Cheeks, Tongue)
Cuts and lacerations to the lips, cheeks, tongue, and gums can bleed heavily due to the rich blood supply in the mouth. Most minor cuts heal on their own, but deeper wounds may need professional attention.
Managing Soft Tissue Bleeding
- •Rinse gently with cold water to clean the area
- •Apply firm pressure with clean gauze or a damp cloth for 15 to 20 minutes
- •Hold a cold compress against the outside of the mouth to reduce swelling
- •Avoid hot food and drinks until the wound has started to heal
Seek professional care if bleeding does not stop after 20 minutes of pressure, the wound is deep or gaping, you can see tissue or fat, or the injury was caused by a rusty or dirty object. Watch for signs of infection in the following days, including increasing redness, swelling, pus, or fever.
When to Visit A&E Instead of the Dentist
Most dental emergencies should be managed by a dentist, not A&E. Hospital emergency departments do not have dental equipment and cannot carry out fillings, extractions, or root canal treatments. However, there are specific situations where A&E is the right choice.
Go to A&E If You Have:
- •A suspected fracture of the jaw or facial bones
- •Severe, uncontrollable bleeding that will not stop after 20 minutes of firm pressure
- •Large swelling in the face, neck, or throat that is affecting your breathing or ability to swallow
- •High fever with rapidly increasing facial swelling
- •Trauma involving loss of consciousness or head injury alongside dental damage
How to Access Emergency Dental Care in London
Accessing emergency dental care in London does not have to be difficult. Many dental practices, including ours, offer same-day appointments for genuine emergencies. You do not need to be a registered patient to receive urgent care.
What to Expect During an Emergency Visit
- •Assessment: The dentist will examine the affected area, ask about your symptoms, and may take images to understand the full picture
- •Pain relief: Immediate steps will be taken to manage your pain
- •Treatment plan: You will receive a clear explanation of the problem and your treatment options, including costs
- •Same-day treatment: Many emergency treatments can be completed in a single visit
How to Prepare for Your Emergency Appointment
- •Bring any broken tooth fragments in a clean container
- •Note any medications you are currently taking
- •Be ready to describe when the problem started and how the pain feels
- •If a tooth has been knocked out, bring it stored in milk
Book a same-day appointment with an emergency dentist in London for immediate relief. Our practice is located in the City of London and provides urgent care during and outside regular hours.
What to Include in a Dental First Aid Kit
Having a small dental first aid kit at home means you can respond quickly to minor emergencies. These items are inexpensive and widely available from pharmacies.
Your Dental First Aid Essentials
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While not every dental emergency can be prevented, many can be avoided with the right habits and regular care.
- Attend regular check-ups. Routine dental examinations catch small problems before they become emergencies.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports. Custom-fitted mouthguards protect teeth from impact injuries far better than shop-bought options.
- Avoid chewing hard foods and ice. Biting into hard sweets, ice cubes, or popcorn kernels is a common cause of cracked teeth.
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily and flossing regularly reduces the risk of decay and gum disease.
- Never use teeth as tools. Opening bottles, tearing packaging, or biting nails puts unnecessary stress on your teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Emergencies
How do I know if my dental problem is an emergency?
A dental problem is an emergency if you have severe pain that will not go away, heavy bleeding, a knocked-out or badly broken tooth, large swelling in your face or gums, or signs of infection such as fever and pus. If you are unsure, contact an emergency dentist for advice.
Can I go to A&E for tooth pain?
A&E departments are not equipped to carry out dental treatments. They can help manage severe swelling affecting breathing, facial fractures, or uncontrollable bleeding. For tooth pain, a dental abscess, or a broken tooth, you should see an emergency dentist instead.
What painkiller is best for toothache?
Ibuprofen is generally the most effective over-the-counter painkiller for toothache because it reduces both pain and inflammation. Paracetamol can also help. You can alternate the two as directed on the packaging. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum as this can cause burns.
How long can I wait with a broken tooth?
It depends on the severity. A small chip with no pain may wait a day or two. However, a broken tooth with exposed nerve, sharp edges cutting soft tissue, or significant pain should be seen the same day. Delaying treatment can lead to infection or further damage.
Will an emergency dentist pull my tooth same day?
Yes, if the tooth cannot be saved and extraction is the best course of action, an emergency dentist can carry out a same-day extraction. The dentist will always explore options to preserve the tooth first and will explain all available choices before proceeding.
How much does emergency dental care cost in London?
Emergency dental care costs in London vary depending on the treatment required. An emergency consultation typically ranges from £50 to £150, while treatments such as extractions, fillings, or abscess drainage carry additional costs. Your dentist will provide a clear breakdown of fees before any treatment begins.
Can a dental abscess go away on its own?
No. A dental abscess will not resolve without professional treatment. Even if the pain decreases temporarily, the infection remains and can spread to other parts of the body. Antibiotics alone cannot cure an abscess. The source of the infection must be treated by a dentist.
What should I do for toothache relief while waiting for the dentist?
Take over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol as directed. Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods and drinks. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum.
This content has been reviewed for clinical accuracy by the dental team at St Paul's Medical & Dental.
This article is for general information only and does not replace professional dental advice. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact a dentist as soon as possible.
Experiencing a Dental Emergency in London?
Do not wait for the problem to get worse. Our experienced dental team provides same-day emergency care in the City of London. Whether it is severe pain, a broken tooth, or an infection, we are here to help.