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What to Do in a Dental Emergency: A Quick-Action Survival Guide From Pflugerville, TX Dentist

  • Writer: K Family Dentistry
    K Family Dentistry
  • Jul 22
  • 3 min read
K Family Dentistry in Pflugerville, TX 78660 Emergency, Invisalign, Family, Cosmetic - Laser dentistry, Dental Implants, Crowns, Bridges, Restorations, Veneers, Fillings, Root Canal Therapy, ClearCorrect, Dentures, Teeth Whitening, Inlays and Onlays, Sedation Dentistry, Emergency Dentist, Kid Friendly Dentist, Dental Checkup, Cleaning & Examinations

Dental emergencies can strike when you least expect them—whether it’s a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken crown. Knowing how to respond quickly can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. We’re here to help you prepare for the unexpected with this quick guide to common dental emergencies and what you should do if one happens.


What Is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth, gums, or mouth that requires immediate attention to relieve pain, stop bleeding, save a tooth, or prevent a serious infection. Some dental issues can wait a day or two—but others need treatment as soon as possible.



Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them


K Family Dentistry in Pflugerville, TX 78660 Emergency, Invisalign, Family, Cosmetic - Laser dentistry, Dental Implants, Crowns, Bridges, Restorations, Veneers, Fillings, Root Canal Therapy, ClearCorrect, Dentures, Teeth Whitening, Inlays and Onlays, Sedation Dentistry, Emergency Dentist, Kid Friendly Dentist, Dental Checkup, Cleaning & Examinations

1. Toothache

Persistent, throbbing tooth pain could indicate an infection, abscess, or severe decay.

What to do:

  • Rinse your mouth with warm water.

  • Use dental floss to ensure nothing is stuck between your teeth.

  • Take over-the-counter pain relievers (never place aspirin directly on gums).

  • Contact your dentist immediately for an evaluation.


2. Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out (avulsed) tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies.

What to do:

  • Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root).

  • Rinse it gently if dirty—do not scrub.

  • Try to place it back in the socket, or store it in milk or a tooth-preservation solution.

  • Get to your dentist or an emergency room within 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.


K Family Dentistry in Pflugerville, TX 78660 Emergency, Invisalign, Family, Cosmetic - Laser dentistry, Dental Implants, Crowns, Bridges, Restorations, Veneers, Fillings, Root Canal Therapy, ClearCorrect, Dentures, Teeth Whitening, Inlays and Onlays, Sedation Dentistry, Emergency Dentist, Kid Friendly Dentist, Dental Checkup, Cleaning & Examinations

3. Broken or Chipped Tooth

A broken tooth can be painful and may expose sensitive nerves.

What to do:

  • Rinse your mouth with warm water.

  • Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

  • Save any broken pieces and bring them to your appointment.

  • See your dentist as soon as possible.



4. Lost Filling or Crown

A missing filling or crown can leave the tooth vulnerable to damage or infection.

What to do:

  • If possible, keep the crown and bring it with you.

  • Apply dental cement (available at pharmacies) as a temporary fix.

  • Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.

  • Call your dentist to schedule a repair.


K Family Dentistry in Pflugerville, TX 78660 Emergency, Invisalign, Family, Cosmetic - Laser dentistry, Dental Implants, Crowns, Bridges, Restorations, Veneers, Fillings, Root Canal Therapy, ClearCorrect, Dentures, Teeth Whitening, Inlays and Onlays, Sedation Dentistry, Emergency Dentist, Kid Friendly Dentist, Dental Checkup, Cleaning & Examinations

5. Abscess or Swelling

An abscess is a serious infection that can spread quickly if untreated.

What to do:

  • Rinse with warm salt water to ease discomfort and draw out infection.

  • Do not pop or drain the abscess yourself.

  • Seek immediate dental or medical care—this can be life-threatening if ignored.



When to Go to the ER vs. the Dentist

Go to the emergency room if:

  • You have uncontrollable bleeding.

  • You have swelling that’s making it hard to breathe or swallow.

  • You’ve sustained a serious injury to your jaw or face.

See your dentist immediately for:

  • Severe toothache or swelling.

  • Knocked-out or broken teeth.

  • Lost fillings or crowns.

  • Damaged braces or dental devices.


K Family Dentistry in Pflugerville, TX 78660 Emergency, Invisalign, Family, Cosmetic - Laser dentistry, Dental Implants, Crowns, Bridges, Restorations, Veneers, Fillings, Root Canal Therapy, ClearCorrect, Dentures, Teeth Whitening, Inlays and Onlays, Sedation Dentistry, Emergency Dentist, Kid Friendly Dentist, Dental Checkup, Cleaning & Examinations

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

While not all emergencies are avoidable, some steps can reduce your risk:

  • Wear a mouthguard during sports.

  • Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels.

  • Maintain regular dental check-ups.

  • Don’t use your teeth to open bottles or packages.

  • Treat dental pain early before it worsens.



We're Here When You Need Us Most

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, give us a call. Your smile can’t wait—and neither should you.



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