Do I Need Emergency Dentistry?
Unexpected dental issues can happen at any time—whether from a sports injury, a fall, or another accident. Emergency dentistry helps address urgent concerns quickly to relieve pain, prevent complications, and protect your smile.
- Save a tooth
- Stop ongoing tissue bleeding
- Alleviate severe pain
- Treat a serious infection or abscess
A dental emergency includes any situation that requires immediate treatment to:
Left untreated, some infections can become life-threatening. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to call.
- A severe toothache that prevents eating or sleeping
- A knocked-out tooth
- A chipped or broken tooth (especially if it’s painful or fractured into pieces)
- A lost filling or dental crown
- An abscess or visible swelling on the gums
- Broken or loose braces (contact your orthodontist directly if applicable)
Contact us right away if you experience:
Prompt care makes all the difference—don’t wait to seek help.
Dental First Aid – What To Do
Dental emergencies can feel overwhelming—whether it’s happening to you or someone you care about. The key is to stay calm, apply first aid, and contact a dental professional as soon as possible.
Here are some quick, effective tips for managing common dental emergencies:
Toothache
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) may help ease the discomfort. Be sure to follow dosage instructions and record what you take, how much, and when—so you can inform us during your visit.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Time is critical. If the tooth is whole and clean, gently place it back in its socket without forcing it. If that’s not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or your own saliva. Call us immediately. A knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved if treated within 60 minutes.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water to clear away fragments. If bleeding occurs, apply sterile gauze and apply gentle pressure. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain. Call us as soon as possible so we can assess the damage and begin treatment promptly.
Abscess or Gum Swelling
An abscess is a serious infection that can spread quickly and affect your overall health. To help manage pain and draw out pus, rinse your mouth several times a day with a saltwater solution (½ teaspoon of table salt in 8 ounces of warm water). See a dentist immediately—do not delay.
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
Start by calling us right away. While first aid tips can help, immediate guidance from our team ensures you manage the situation correctly—whether it’s to relieve pain, protect your tooth, or plan for urgent treatment.
If it’s safe for you, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or aspirin may help ease discomfort temporarily. Always follow your doctor’s advice and the dosage instructions on the label. Be sure to record what you took, how much, and when, so you can inform us during your visit. Keep in mind—dental pain is often nerve-related, and true relief comes from professional treatment.
Yes, but hospital emergency rooms usually focus on treating immediate pain or infection rather than providing long-term dental solutions. You may receive temporary care and be advised to follow up with a dentist for definitive treatment.
An untreated broken tooth can collect bacteria, increasing the risk of infection or abscess. It may also lead to nerve damage, potentially requiring a root canal or even extraction if left too long.
If an abscess doesn’t drain, the infection can spread to your jaw, face, or even your bloodstream—causing a dangerous condition called sepsis. This is a medical emergency. If you suspect an infection is spreading, seek immediate care.
What Our Patients Are Saying
The staff is the sweetest
Friendly & Welcoming Place
Friendly & Convenient Place
