When you think of dental emergencies, you probably picture a throbbing toothache, a cracked filling, or maybe even a knocked-out tooth. But not every emergency is quite so ordinary. Believe it or not, some patients have ended up in their dentist’s chair for reasons that sound straight out of a movie.
From plants growing in mouths to misplaced dental tools, here are a few of the strangest dental emergencies ever reported—and why it’s always good to have an emergency dentist on speed dial!
A Plant Growing in the Mouth
One of the most bizarre dental cases ever recorded involved a patient who complained of persistent mouth pain—only for doctors to discover that a small plant was sprouting inside his gum tissue! Incredibly, a seed had become lodged after the patient’s tooth extraction, and the warm, moist environment of his mouth allowed it to germinate. While this is an extreme rarity, it’s a reminder that proper post-treatment care and follow-up appointments are crucial after dental procedures.
A Toothbrush Gone Rogue
In another strange case, a patient arrived at the emergency room after accidentally swallowing part of their toothbrush while trying to clean the back of their throat. The bristles had become stuck and caused severe pain. Dentists and doctors had to work together to remove the foreign object safely. It’s an unsettling reminder to always be gentle with oral hygiene tools and never insert them too far back!
A Nail Through the Tooth
Some DIY enthusiasts take things a bit too far. One patient reportedly tried to fix a loose dental crown by using a nail and glue—unfortunately, the nail pierced through the tooth and caused a severe infection. This kind of self-repair might sound absurd, but it happens more often than you’d think. The moral of the story? Leave dental fixes to the professionals.
When Superglue Goes Wrong
Speaking of home repairs, superglue seems to be a popular (and terrible) choice for patients attempting emergency fixes. In one instance, a patient used superglue to reattach a broken dental crown. The result? Chemical burns on the gums and a trip to the dentist for removal. While superglue might seem like a quick fix, it’s highly toxic to oral tissues and can create lasting damage.
A Spider Bite in the Mouth
It’s not just broken teeth and bad ideas that send people to the dentist. In one unusual emergency, a patient developed severe swelling in their mouth after being bitten by a spider hiding inside their drink cup. The venom caused a localized reaction that required urgent care to relieve pain and prevent infection. Although rare, it’s proof that dental pain can have some unexpected causes!
Don’t Become a Cautionary Tale
While these cases are certainly rare, they highlight one important truth: when something unusual happens with your mouth, it’s always best to seek professional help. Even if your situation doesn’t involve superglue or a stray seed, quick action can make all the difference.
About the Practice
At Lakeland Dental Care, Dr. Malley and Dr. Abernathy provide compassionate, reliable care for all types of dental emergencies—both common and uncommon! Whether you’re dealing with a toothache, injury, or unexpected dental issue, we’re here to restore your comfort and your smile as quickly as possible.
Call us at (601) 981-8166 or request an appointment online.