Summer is the season of outdoor fun, adventure, and relaxation, providing a much-needed break from the typically busy school year and work routines. Whether your preferred summer activities involve hitting the beach, going on a hike, bike rides, playing sports, or simply enjoying a barbecue with friends and family, these enjoyable moments can sometimes lead to unexpected dental emergencies. Knowing how to handle these situations effectively can make a significant difference in preserving your dental health and ensuring a worry-free summer for everyone!

Here are some common dental emergencies that can occur during summer activities and tips on how to handle them effectively!

1. Tooth Avulsion (A Knocked-Out Tooth)

Causes:

• Sports injuries

• Accidents during outdoor activities such as biking, skateboarding, or playing on the playground

• Any accidental fall or injuries to the mouth

What to Do:

• Keep calm and try to find the knocked-out tooth.

• Hold the tooth by the crown (the part that is usually visible in the mouth), not by the root.

• If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water. Do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments.

• Try to place the tooth back into its socket without forcing it. If it does not go back easily, place it in a container with milk or saliva to keep it moist.

• Time is critical. Aim to get to a dentist within 30 minutes if possible.

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2. Chipped or Broken Tooth

Causes:

• Biting into hard foods like ice or candy

• Accidents during sports or outdoor activities

What to Do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.

• Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling (if any).

• If the break is causing sharp edges, cover it with a piece of sugarless gum or dental wax to protect your tongue and cheek.

• See your dentist as soon as possible to prevent further damage and to restore the tooth.

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3. Lost Filling or Crown

Causes:

• Chewing hard foods

• Impact from sports or falls

What to Do:

• If a crown falls off, keep it safe. It might be possible for the dentist to re-cement it.

• If you can’t see the dentist immediately, use dental cement (available at pharmacies) to temporarily cover the tooth.

• Until you can see the dentist, avoid using the affected side of your mouth for chewing.

• See your dentist as soon as possible to repair or replace the filling or crown.

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4. Toothache

Causes:

• Tooth decay

• Gum infection

• Abscess

What to Do:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.

• Floss to remove any food particles that might be causing irritation.

• Use pain relievers like ibuprofen to alleviate discomfort until you can see your dentist.

• Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.

• Persistent toothaches should be evaluated by a dentist to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.

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5. Soft Tissue Injuries (Gums, Lips, Tongue, Cheeks)

Causes:

• Falls or blows to the face

• Accidents during sports or recreational activities

What to Do:

• Clean the area with warm salt water.

• Use a piece of gauze or a clean cloth to apply pressure to the bleeding area.

• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

• If the bleeding doesn’t stop or the injury is severe, seek medical attention immediately.

Tips for Preventing Dental Emergencies

• Use a mouthguard during sports and recreational activities to protect your teeth from injury.

• Be cautious when eating hard foods that can chip or break your teeth.

• Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist and reduce the risk of dental problems.

• Brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy and resilient against injury and infection.

• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.

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If you do encounter a dental emergency—whether it's a chipped tooth from a hard snack or a knocked-out tooth from an accident—knowing what immediate actions to take can make a big difference. Quick response and proper care can prevent further damage and lead to a smoother recovery.  

If an emergency arises, seek professional dental care as soon as possible to address the issue effectively. You can quickly book an appointment using our online scheduler or contact our reception team for any last-minute emergency appointments.  

Enjoy your summer adventures!

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