Dental emergency? Here is what to do.

A dental emergency is any situation involving uncontrolled bleeding, severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter painkillers, a knocked-out permanent tooth, a broken jaw, or swelling that is spreading to your eye, neck, or floor of your mouth. If you are unsure, call your dentist or go to an emergency room.

Go to the ER if you have uncontrolled bleeding, facial swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, a broken jaw, or signs of a spreading infection (fever, difficulty opening your mouth). For most other dental emergencies like a knocked-out tooth, broken tooth, or severe toothache, an emergency dentist is a better choice because ERs typically cannot perform dental procedures.

Emergency dental visits typically cost $100-$300 for the exam and initial treatment. The total cost depends on what is needed: a simple extraction runs $150-$500, root canal $700-$1,500, and a crown $800-$2,500. Many emergency dentists offer payment plans. If you go to an ER, expect $200-$1,000 just for the visit, plus they usually only prescribe antibiotics and painkillers without fixing the actual problem.

Yes, if you act within 30 minutes. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the white part), never the root. If it is dirty, gently rinse with milk or saline. Try to place it back in the socket and hold it there. If you cannot replant it, keep it in a glass of milk or between your cheek and gum. Get to a dentist immediately. The chances of saving the tooth drop significantly after 60 minutes.

Take ibuprofen (Advil) for pain and inflammation. Rinse with warm salt water. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off. Keep your head elevated when lying down. Avoid hot, cold, or sweet foods. If the pain is severe and not responding to medication, or if you have swelling or fever, go to an emergency room.