When it comes to your smile, when do you need emergency care? A dental emergency refers to any trauma or damage to the teeth or gums. We recommend seeing you as soon as possible to address the problem in a timely manner, for both your health and appearance’s sake. However, should the issue be potentially life threatening we urge you to instead proceed to the nearest emergency room or to call 911.
Common Questions About Emergency Dentistry
Question: Does a toothache count as an emergency situation?
Answer: If a toothache appears suddenly and causes serious discomfort then yes, this could require emergency care. You could be suffering from advanced decay or even an abscess or infection. Ignoring the problem could increase the risk of further complications, including the potential loss of the tooth.
Question: Should I have my chipped tooth looked at?
Answer: Yes. When you damage a tooth the sensitive inner structure is exposed to harmful bacteria, allowing cavities and eventually an infection to form. To protect your tooth, we suggest having the damaged repaired as soon as possible. Using dental bonding or possibly a restoration, such as a crown or veneer, we can repair the tooth in an esthetically pleasing manner.
Question: How do I respond to a knocked-out tooth?
Answer: First, recover the tooth. Pick it up by the crown (never touch the root) and then rinse it under gently running water to remove dirt and debris (take care not to remove tissue). Then, either place the tooth back into the socket or in a glass of milk and bring it to the office. Remember, over time a missing tooth can increase the likelihood of misalignment, as well as jaw joint issues such as TMJ disorder or bruxism (chronic teeth grinding).
Question: What if my filling is loose?
Answer: If a filling or crown becomes loose or even lost, see us right away. Losing a restoration exposes the tooth to harmful bacteria, just as damage would. To avoid complications, such as decay or infection/abscess, see the doctor right away. We can repair or replace the restoration depending on the situation. If you have any questions about our approach to emergency dental care, then please contact our office today.
