For a dental emergency, call your dentist right away and follow first aid: for a knocked-out tooth, hold it by the crown, rinse gently, and put it back in the socket or store it in milk — the best chance of saving it is within about an hour. For a toothache, rinse with warm salt water and take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Go to the ER for trouble breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or swelling spreading toward the eye or neck.
Is it a dental emergency?
Call your dentist the same day for severe pain, a knocked-out or loose adult tooth, a broken tooth with pain or sharp edges, swelling in the gums or face, a painful pimple-like bump on the gums, or bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure.
It can usually wait for a regular appointment if you have a small chip with no pain, a lost filling without pain, or mild sensitivity.
First aid, emergency by emergency
Knocked-out adult tooth
- Pick the tooth up by the crown (the white chewing part). Don’t touch the root.
- If dirty, rinse it briefly with milk or water. Don’t scrub it or wrap it in tissue.
- Try to place it back into the socket and bite gently on gauze to hold it.
- If you can’t, store it in a small container of milk (or inside your cheek if you’re an adult and won’t swallow it).
- See a dentist immediately — ideally within 30–60 minutes.
Do not reinsert a knocked-out baby tooth. Call your dentist for guidance.
Severe toothache
- Rinse with warm salt water and gently floss to remove trapped food.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed on the label.
- Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek.
- Don’t place aspirin directly on the gums — it can burn the tissue.
Chipped or broken tooth
- Save any pieces and bring them with you.
- Rinse with warm water; apply gauze if bleeding.
- Cover sharp edges with sugar-free gum or dental wax.
Lost crown or filling
- Keep the crown and bring it with you.
- Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can help briefly — never use household glue.
- Avoid chewing on that side.
Swelling or abscess
Swelling can mean an infection that needs prompt care. Call your dentist right away. Rinse with salt water and don’t apply heat to the face.
When to go to the emergency room instead
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling spreading to the eye, neck or under the jaw
- High fever with facial swelling
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- A possible broken jaw or serious head injury
Emergency dentist in Cypress, TX
Smiley Cypress Dental Care reserves time for urgent patients and often sees emergencies the same day during office hours (Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm). Call (832) 353-3600 as early as you can.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you have to save a knocked-out tooth?
The best chance is when the tooth is replanted within about 30 to 60 minutes. Keeping it moist in milk or in the socket improves the odds.
What can I take for a toothache until I see the dentist?
Over-the-counter pain relievers taken as directed, warm salt-water rinses, and a cold compress can help. These only relieve symptoms — the cause still needs treatment.
Is a chipped tooth an emergency?
A small chip without pain can usually wait for a regular visit. A larger break, pain, or a sharp edge cutting your tongue or cheek should be seen soon.
Related services: Emergency Dentist
This article is for general education and isn’t a substitute for an in-person exam. For advice about your situation, call (832) 353-3600 or request an appointment.