What to Do in a Dental Emergency 

By Dr. Junho Choi

Let’s be honest—dental emergencies never happen at a convenient time. It’s always right before a big event, a weekend trip, or when you finally sit down to relax with your favorite snack. (Yes, I see you, kettle corn.)

The good news? You don’t have to panic. Before you reach for the phone, here are a few quick steps to help manage the situation safely at home:

Toothache or Sensitivity

Start by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to help clean the area. You can apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce any swelling. Skip the aspirin-on-the-gum trick—it doesn’t work and can actually irritate your tissues.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

Rinse with warm water. If the edge feels sharp, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your tongue or cheek. If you have the broken piece, store it in milk or saliva and bring it with you.

Lost Crown, Filling, or Veneer

If the tooth feels sensitive, try covering it with sugar-free gum or dental wax to protect it until we can properly repair it. And no—please don’t try to superglue it. (Yes, that happens more than you’d think.)

Swelling in the Gums or Face

Swelling can be a sign of infection. Apply a cold compress and call us as soon as you can.

Once you’ve done what you can at home, give us a call at 760-346-8056. If it’s after hours, leave a message—we check them regularly and will get back to you as soon as possible.

If you’re searching for emergency dental care in Palm Desert, my team and I are here to help you feel better and protect your smile—no stress, just care when you need it most.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,

– Dr. Choi