Emergency Dentistry

A dental emergency is a situation that requires immediate attention from a dentist to alleviate severe pain, stop bleeding, treat injuries, or prevent further damage to teeth, gums, or surrounding oral structures. Examples of dental emergencies include severe toothache, knocked-out or partially dislodged tooth, broken or chipped tooth with sharp edges, severe oral bleeding, sudden swelling or infection, and injuries to the mouth or jaw. If you are uncertain whether your situation is an emergency, it's best to contact a dentist for guidance.

In a dental emergency, it's important to remain calm and take prompt action. If you are experiencing severe pain, rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the affected tooth to remove any trapped debris. If a tooth has been knocked out, try to place it back into the socket without touching the root or keep it in a container of milk or saliva. Control bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze. Then, contact an emergency dentist immediately for further guidance and to schedule an appointment.

In most cases, it is recommended to contact an emergency dentist before visiting their office, even in urgent situations. By calling ahead, the dental team can assess your situation, provide first aid instructions, and ensure that appropriate arrangements are made to accommodate your emergency visit. In some cases, emergency dental clinics or hospitals may offer walk-in services, but it's best to contact them first to confirm their availability and receive any necessary instructions.

Dental emergencies can happen outside of regular office hours. Many dental practices have emergency protocols in place to address after-hours emergencies. Some dentists provide an emergency contact number that you can call for guidance. In more severe cases, you may need to visit an emergency dental clinic or hospital. They often have dental professionals available to handle urgent dental situations, even during nights, weekends, and holidays.