Dental Emergencies

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that poses an immediate threat to the health of your teeth and supporting tissues. Dental emergencies are often the result of impact to the mouth, but they also can be caused by infection. To ensure the best possible outcome, any dental emergency should be evaluated by a professional immediately.

How soon should I be seen?

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, we recommend you contact your general dentist first. Your general dentist will be able to advise what your treatment options are and, if necessary, will refer you to us. If your dentist wants you to be seen in our office, we can offer same-day emergency services for most conditions.

After Hours Emergencies

For patients that have already been seen in our office and are experiencing severe dental emergencies after hours, such as significant infection, pain or trauma please call our emergency number:

What to do if a tooth is knocked out

For permanent teeth that are knocked out, rinse the tooth and put it back in the socket. If you cannot get the tooth back in the socket, place it in a container of milk, water, or saliva to keep it moist. Do not touch the roots (handle the tooth by the crown) and do not brush the tooth. Contact your general dentists IMMEDIATELY for information and emergency treatment — the sooner you get to us, the more likely your tooth can be saved!

For baby teeth that are unexpectedly knocked out, leave them out and contact the child’s dentist immediately for instructions.

Other Dental Emergencies

  • Broken Tooth/Teeth
  • Pain When Biting
  • Severe Tooth Decay (Tooth Extraction May Be Required)
  • Bleeding
  • Trauma from Tooth Accident
  • Inflammation Around Wisdom Teeth
  • Substantial Toothache
  • Severe Tooth Sensitivity
  • Gum Abscesses
    • Swollen or Sore Gums
  • Jaw Pain
  • Infection

Pain Management

If you can’t get into your dentist’s office immediately, here is a list of effective home remedies to make you more comfortable while you wait for care:

  • Warm water rinses sore teeth and gums.
  • Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Ice packs applied to the outside of cheeks.
  • Dental anesthetics containing benzocaine may be used as directed on the package for pain.
  • Avoid overly hot and cold beverages and foods to reduce sensitivity.
  • Heating pads may be used for jaw pain.
  • Avoid chewing in the injured area.
  • If a broken tooth has a sharp edge, cotton can be placed over it to protect soft tissues in your mouth.

We are here to help! Please contact us if you have any emergency condition.