Do I Need Emergency Dentistry?
Unexpected dental issues can happen anytime—whether from sports injuries, slips, or other accidents that cause sudden tooth damage. In these cases, our emergency dentistry services are ready to handle urgent dental problems quickly.
Any dental issue that needs immediate attention to save a tooth, stop bleeding, or relieve severe pain is considered an emergency. It’s important to address severe infections or abscesses right away, as they can pose serious health risks.
Reach out to us if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent toothache affecting your ability to eat or sleep.
- A knocked-out tooth.
- Broken or loose braces (contact your orthodontist if you have one).
- Chipped or broken teeth, especially if the damage is significant.
- Lost filling or crown.
- An abscess or a ‘pimple’ on the gum line.
We’re here to provide the care you need when you need it most. Don’t hesitate to call us during any dental emergency.
Dental First Aid - What To Do
We understand that dental emergencies can feel overwhelming, whether it’s happening to you or a loved one. Stay calm, provide first aid, and seek professional care as soon as possible.
Here are some practical tips for common dental emergencies:
Toothache
To ease discomfort, try applying a cold compress to the affected area. You can also take a pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil), but make sure to follow your doctor’s advice and the instructions on the medication label. For better tracking, note down the medication, dosage, and time taken so you can share this information with us during your visit. This helps us offer the best care possible.
Knocked-Out Teeth
Time is of the essence when it comes to saving a knocked-out tooth! If the tooth is clean, try to gently place it back into its socket. If this causes pain or feels difficult, store the tooth in a cup of milk instead. Reach out to us right away for further instructions. Acting quickly—ideally within an hour—can significantly improve the chances of saving your tooth.
Broken Teeth
Start by rinsing your mouth with warm water to clear away any small debris. If there is bleeding, gently press a piece of sterile gauze against the area until it stops. To reduce pain and swelling, apply a cold compress. It’s crucial to contact us immediately in this situation. We are dedicated to providing swift pain relief, promoting healing, and working toward the restoration of your tooth. Your dental health is our priority, and we’re here to support you through this as quickly and effectively as possible.
Abscess
An abscess is a serious infection that forms around the tooth root or between the gums and teeth. These infections can damage nearby tissues and teeth and, if left untreated, may spread to other areas, posing significant health risks. Immediate attention from your dentist is essential. While waiting for your appointment, you can rinse your mouth several times a day with a mild saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) to help ease the pain and encourage pus drainage. However, seeing your dentist promptly is critical for a thorough evaluation and treatment, ensuring your oral health and preventing further complications.
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
While our dental first aid tips can help, the most critical first step is to call us right away! Our team will provide expert guidance over the phone to ease your pain, protect your tooth, and get you to our clinic as quickly as possible. Your well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to support you throughout the emergency. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Always follow your doctor’s advice and the instructions on the medication bottle before taking any pain reliever. If it’s safe for you, over-the-counter options like Tylenol, Advil, or Aspirin can help reduce the pain temporarily. However, dental pain often involves nerves, and real relief typically comes from professional treatment. Be sure to note what you take, how much, and when, and share this information with us during your visit.
Yes, you can go to the Emergency Room (ER) for urgent dental care. The ER can provide temporary relief and bill your health insurance for the visit, but they are not equipped to address dental problems fully unless they are also health emergencies. You may need to follow up with a dentist for complete care.
An untreated broken tooth can become a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of infection or an abscess. It can also lead to nerve damage, potentially requiring a root canal down the line.
If an abscess ruptures, pain might temporarily decrease, but dental treatment is still necessary. If the abscess doesn’t drain, the infection could spread to your jaw and other areas of your head and neck, posing a risk of sepsis—a serious, life-threatening infection. Timely dental care is crucial to prevent such complications, so contact a dentist immediately if you suspect an abscess or related symptoms.