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Common Dental Emergencies — What To Do
First aid advice while you wait to see a dentist
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water. Apply gauze to any bleeding. Use a cold compress on your face to reduce swelling. See a dentist as soon as possible.
Severe Toothache
Rinse with warm salt water. Floss gently to remove any lodged debris. Take over-the-counter pain relief. Avoid placing aspirin directly on gums.
Lost Filling or Crown
Apply clove oil to the sensitive area. Use dental cement or sugar-free gum as a temporary cover. Avoid chewing on that side. See your dentist within 24 hours.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Handle the tooth by the crown only. Rinse gently without scrubbing. Try to place it back in the socket or keep it in milk. Get to a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving it.
FAQ
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency includes severe toothache, knocked-out or broken teeth, uncontrolled bleeding, swelling of the face or gums, lost fillings or crowns causing pain, and any trauma to the mouth.
How much does an emergency dental visit cost in Canada?
Emergency dental exam fees in Canada typically range from $100 to $250, not including treatment. Treatment costs vary widely: tooth extractions ($150–$400), root canals ($600–$1,400), and crowns ($800–$2,000).
Can I go to a hospital emergency room for tooth pain?
Hospital ERs can manage pain and infection but cannot perform dental treatment. For actual dental repair (extractions, root canals, fillings), you must see a dentist.
What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?
Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root), rinse gently without scrubbing, and try to place it back in the socket. If that's not possible, store it in milk or saliva. See a dentist within 30 minutes.
Does insurance cover emergency dental care?
Most private dental insurance plans cover emergency exams and treatment, though coverage limits vary. The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) also covers eligible emergency services for qualifying residents.