Dental Emergency Guide: What to Do for a Chipped, Cracked, or Knocked-Out Tooth
For a knocked-out permanent tooth, time matters most: rinse it gently without scrubbing, try to reinsert it into the socket, or store it in milk, and get to a dentist within 30 to 60 minutes for the best chance of saving it. Chipped and cracked teeth are rarely as time-sensitive, but should still be evaluated within a day or two to prevent further damage or infection.
Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
Pick the tooth up by the crown (the chewing surface), never the root
Rinse it gently with water — no soap, and don't scrub it
If possible, try to reinsert the tooth back into its socket
If you can't reinsert it, store it in milk or your own saliva, not tap water
Get to a dentist within 30 to 60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth
Chipped Tooth
Save the broken fragment if you can find it
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water
Apply a cold compress to the cheek or lip to reduce swelling
Cover any sharp edge with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your tongue and cheek
Schedule a dental visit as soon as possible
Cracked or Fractured Tooth
Signs of a cracked tooth include pain when biting down, sensitivity to temperature, or a visible line across the tooth. Rinse with warm salt water, avoid chewing on that side of your mouth, and use a cold compress for swelling. See a dentist promptly — cracks can worsen over time and may eventually expose the nerve, leading to the need for a root canal or extraction if left untreated.
Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown comes loose, keep it if you can find it and avoid chewing on that side. Over-the-counter dental cement or a small dab of clove oil can help temporarily manage sensitivity, and sticky or hard foods should be avoided until you're seen. Contact our office promptly — we can often re-cement a crown that's still in good condition.
Severe Toothache or Facial Swelling
A severe, persistent toothache accompanied by swelling can indicate a dental abscess or spreading infection. This should never be ignored, especially if you notice facial swelling, fever, or difficulty swallowing — these can be signs that urgent care is needed.
When to Go to the ER vs. Call Your Dentist
Go to the emergency room for uncontrolled bleeding, facial swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, or a suspected jaw fracture
Call your dentist for most tooth-specific trauma, including knocked-out, chipped, or cracked teeth and toothaches
How Urban Dental Clinic Handles Dental Emergencies
Our team works to accommodate urgent visits as quickly as possible, so you're not left managing a dental injury on your own. Learn more about our emergency dentistry services and what to expect when you call.
Experiencing a Dental Emergency in Kigali?
Don't wait it out. Urban Dental Clinic welcomes urgent-care patients from Kigali City Center and nearby Kimihurura, Nyarutarama, Remera, and Kacyiru. Call +250 788 200 730 right away so our team can guide you through the next steps and get you in as quickly as possible.
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