If you experience a dental emergency, it's important to act quickly and seek immediate dental care to prevent further damage or complications. Here are some steps to take in a dental emergency:

1. Call your dentist: If you have a regular dentist, call their office as soon as possible. They may be able to see you immediately or refer you to an emergency dentist.

2. Explain the situation: Describe your symptoms and the nature of the emergency to the dentist or dental office staff. They may be able to provide guidance on how to manage the situation until you can get to the office.

3. Control bleeding: If you have a bleeding injury in your mouth, apply pressure with a clean cloth or gauze until the bleeding stops.

4. Manage pain: If you are experiencing pain, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help. Do not place aspirin directly on the affected area as it can cause further damage.

5. Preserve knocked-out teeth: If you have a knocked-out tooth, rinse it with water and try to place it back in the socket. If you cannot, place the tooth in a cup of milk or saliva to help preserve it until you can see a dentist.

6. Protect cracked or chipped teeth: If you have a cracked or chipped tooth, avoid biting down on the affected tooth and rinse your mouth with warm water.

Remember, prompt action is crucial in a dental emergency. Seeking immediate dental care can help prevent further damage and increase the likelihood of saving your tooth.