Emergency Dental Care
Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly, causing discomfort, pain or damage that requires immediate attention. At our office, we are here to provide the prompt, compassionate care you need during these urgent situations. Our team understands that emergencies are often stressful, which is why we strive to accommodate you as quickly as possible to relieve your pain and restore your oral health.
Common Dental Emergencies
- Severe toothaches
- Knocked-out teeth
- Cracked or fractured teeth
- Injuries to the soft tissues of the mouth, such as the gums, lips, cheeks or tongue
- Lost dental fillings or crowns
Whatever the emergency, we encourage you to contact our office as soon as possible so we can schedule your visit with our emergency dentist without delay and get you the care you need.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If you experience a knocked-out tooth, it is essential to act quickly. Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown, avoiding the root, and gently rinse it with water if necessary. If possible, place the tooth back into its socket and hold it in place. If that is not an option, keep the tooth in a container of milk or saliva and bring it with you to your appointment. Prompt action can increase the chances of saving the tooth.
Managing Pain and Damage
For severe toothaches or damaged teeth, you can rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your face to help minimize swelling and pain. Avoid using over-the-counter pain medication directly on the gums, as it can cause additional irritation.
Our team will provide you with detailed instructions over the phone to help you manage your condition until you arrive at our office.
When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention
If your dental emergency involves significant trauma to the head or neck, we recommend calling 911, visiting the emergency room or contacting your physician before seeking dental care.
Don’t Delay Care
Do not wait to address dental emergencies, as delaying treatment can lead to more severe complications. Contact us immediately, and let us help you regain comfort, health and peace of mind.
FAQ
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency includes any situation causing significant pain, bleeding, or damage to your teeth, gums, or mouth. This can involve a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, broken or cracked teeth, or soft tissue injuries. If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, contact us for guidance.
What should I do if I break or chip a tooth?
If you break or chip a tooth, rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clean the area. Save any pieces of the tooth if possible and bring them to your appointment. Avoid chewing on the affected side, and use a cold compress to reduce swelling until you can see our dentist.
How soon should I visit the dentist for a knocked-out tooth?
A knocked-out tooth requires immediate attention to increase the chance of saving it. Ideally, you should visit the dentist within 30 minutes. Handle the tooth carefully, keeping it moist in milk or saliva, and avoid touching the root. Call us immediately so we can prepare for your arrival.
Can I manage dental pain at home until my appointment?
You can take temporary steps to manage dental pain at home. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, use over-the-counter pain relievers, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid applying aspirin directly to the gums. However, these measures are temporary, and you should seek professional care as soon as possible.