WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY
CHIPPED OR CRACKED TOOTH
If your tooth is chipped or cracked, then the level of discomfort you feel will depend on the extent of the structural damage to your tooth. To minimize the pain, if any, try applying a cold compress or ice pack to the appropriate side of your mouth. An over-the-counter pain reliever can also help alleviate the pain, and you should avoid eating, drinking, or chewing on anything until you can attend your urgent care dentistry appointment.
BROKEN TOOTH
If your tooth breaks, then it is more likely to hurt then a minor chip or crack. If possible, collect the broken piece of the tooth and rinse it off carefully under warm water, then bring it with you to your appointment. If bleeding occurs, then bite down gently on a moist, clean gauze or cloth until the bleeding stops. Similar to a cracked tooth, an ice pack and/or pain reliever can help alleviate any discomfort, and you should avoid exposing the tooth to any foods, beverages, or bite pressure before your appointment.
PARTIALLY OR COMPLETELY KNOCKED-OUT TOOTH
If your tooth is partially knocked-out due to traumatic impact, then bleeding is more likely to occur. You can staunch it by biting down on clean, moist gauze, and you can relieve the pain with a cold compress and/or pain reliever. Avoiding pressure is even more important or you may dislodge the tooth completely. If it is knocked out, then collect the tooth, if possible, then rinse it carefully under warm water and store it in a small container of milk so you can bring it with you to your urgent care appointment.