Emergency Appointments
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency can involve pain, injury, infection, or damage to a tooth that requires prompt professional evaluation.
Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe or persistent tooth pain
- A broken or cracked tooth
- A knocked-out tooth
- A loose or displaced tooth
- A dental filling or crown that has come loose
- Significant swelling around the tooth or gums
- A dental abscess
- Bleeding that does not stop
- An injury to the mouth, teeth, or jaw
- Severe sensitivity following an injury
Even when pain isn’t severe, a damaged tooth should be evaluated if you suspect there is a significant problem.
Severe Tooth Pain
Tooth pain can have many causes, including decay, infection, a damaged filling, a cracked tooth, or inflammation inside the tooth.
Pain that is severe, persistent, or getting worse should not be ignored.
An examination can help determine the source of the pain and whether treatment is needed to address the underlying problem.
Broken or Cracked Teeth
Teeth can become damaged from injuries, biting on hard objects, decay, or normal wear.
If a tooth breaks or cracks:
- Rinse your mouth gently with water
- Avoid chewing on the affected side
- Save any broken pieces if possible
- Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks if the tooth is sensitive
- Contact our office for an evaluation
Depending on the extent of the damage, treatment may involve a filling, bonding, crown, root canal treatment, or another restorative option.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out permanent tooth requires prompt attention.
If possible, handle the tooth by the crown rather than the root. Gently rinse it if it is dirty, but don’t scrub or remove attached tissue.
If you can safely place the tooth back into its socket, do so carefully. If that isn’t possible, keep the tooth moist and contact a dental professional immediately.
Time is an important factor when a permanent tooth has been completely knocked out.
A knocked-out baby tooth should not be placed back into the socket.
Dental Abscess & Swelling
A dental abscess is an infection that can cause pain, swelling, tenderness, or a bad taste in the mouth.
Possible signs include:
- Swelling around the tooth or face
- Persistent toothache
- Pain when biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Fever
- Unpleasant taste or drainage
Dental infections require professional evaluation. Treatment may involve addressing the source of the infection through dental treatment and, when appropriate, medication.
When Is It a Medical Emergency?
If swelling is spreading rapidly or you are having difficulty breathing, swallowing, or opening your mouth, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Lost Filling or Crown
A filling or crown can occasionally become loose or fall out.
If this happens:
- Keep the restoration if you have it
- Rinse your mouth gently
- Avoid chewing on the affected side
- Keep the area clean
- Contact our office for an appointment
A temporary solution may sometimes be recommended until the tooth can be properly evaluated and restored.
Dental Injuries
An accident or sports injury can damage teeth, gums, or other structures in the mouth.
Even if a tooth doesn’t appear broken, an injury can sometimes damage the tooth underneath the surface.
Following a significant dental injury, an examination can help determine whether there is damage that needs treatment or monitoring.
What Should You Do During a Dental Emergency?
When a dental problem occurs, try to remain calm and contact our office as soon as possible.
While waiting for your appointment:
For pain:
Follow appropriate over-the-counter pain-relief directions if these medications are safe for you, and avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums or tooth.
For swelling:
A cold compress applied to the outside of the face may help reduce swelling.
For bleeding:
Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze or a clean cloth.
For a damaged tooth:
Avoid chewing with the affected area and keep any broken tooth fragments or restorations.
Don't Ignore Dental Pain
Some dental problems may temporarily feel better even though the underlying issue remains.
For example, an infection can continue to develop even if pain decreases. Prompt evaluation can help identify the cause of a problem and prevent it from becoming more serious.
At Scarborough Village Dental Care, we’ll assess your symptoms, explain your treatment options, and help you get your oral health back on track.
Meet Our Dental Team
Our Locations
Scarborough Village Dental Care
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Phone
Working Hours
- Monday: 9 AM - 7 PM Tuesday: 9 AM - 7 PMWednesday: 9 AM - 7 PMThursday: 9 AM - 6 PM Friday: 9 AM - 3 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM
Cliffcrest Family Dental
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Working Hours
- Monday: 8 AM - 8 PM Tuesday: 8 AM - 8 PMWednesday: 8 AM - 8 PMThursday: 8 AM - 8 PM Friday: 8 AM - 4 PM Saturday: 9 AM - 2 PM