Do I Need Emergency Dentistry?
Accidents happen, whether through sports, a fall, or other mishaps, leading to immediate tooth damage. Emergency dentistry can help with urgent dental issues and prevent further complications.
Any dental issue that needs immediate attention to save a tooth, stop bleeding, or alleviate severe pain is considered an emergency. Severe infections or abscesses can be life-threatening and require immediate care.
- Toothache that prevents eating or sleeping
- A knocked-out tooth
- Broken or loose braces (contact your orthodontist immediately)
- Chipped or broken teeth (if significant or cracked)
- Lost filling or crown
- Abscess or ‘pimple’ on the gumline
Call us if you have:
Dental First Aid - What To Do
Dental emergencies can be overwhelming, but staying calm and following these steps can help you manage the situation until you see a professional.
Toothache
Apply a cold compress to the area. Pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may help, but always follow your doctor’s instructions. Note the medication, dose, and time taken, so you can inform us during your visit.
Knocked-Out Teeth
Act quickly! If the tooth is clean, gently reinsert it into its socket. If you can’t, place it in a cup of milk. Call us immediately; the sooner you act, the more likely we can save the tooth.
Broken Teeth
Rinse your mouth with warm water to remove fragments. If there’s bleeding, apply sterile gauze until it stops. Use a cold compress to reduce pain and swelling. Contact us right away for assistance.
Abscess
Abscesses are infections around the root of a tooth or between the teeth and gums. They can spread and cause serious complications. Rinse with a mild saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water) to ease pain. See your dentist as soon as possible for treatment.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
In case of a dental emergency, the best first step is to call us! We’ll guide you over the phone on how to alleviate your pain, save your tooth, and get you in as quickly as possible.
Follow your doctor’s advice before taking any medication. If safe for you, Tylenol, Advil, or Aspirin may help ease the pain. However, this is not a permanent solution. Dental pain is often nerve-related, and only professional treatment can provide lasting relief. Make sure to note the medication, dosage, and time taken and share this when you come in.
Yes, the ER can treat you in an emergency but will likely use temporary measures. They may not be able to fully address dental issues unless it’s a health emergency and may bill your health insurance.
If left untreated, a broken tooth can accumulate bacteria, leading to infection or abscess. It may also cause nerve damage, possibly requiring a root canal.
If an abscess ruptures, the pain may decrease, but dental treatment is still required. If it doesn’t drain, the infection may spread to the jaw and other areas of the head and neck, potentially leading to sepsis, a life-threatening condition that can spread throughout your body.
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