Emergency Dentistry

What is emergency dentistry?

Emergency dentistry includes same-day evaluations and treatments for your immediate dental needs. In many cases, early detection and treatment of common dental emergencies is the best way to prevent complications, such as permanent tooth loss or the need for extraction. 

The Westchase Esthetic Family Dentistry experts are there for you and your family whenever you need them, especially during dental emergencies.

What constitutes a dental emergency?

Some of the common reasons you may need emergency dental care at Westchase Esthetic Family Dentistry include:

• Loose permanent tooth
• Knocked-out permanent tooth
• Cracked or chipped tooth
• Toothache
• Extreme hot or cold sensitivity
• Soft tissue damage
• Missing tooth restoration (filling, crown, bridge, etc.)
• Severe tooth decay
• Pus near your gum line
• Gum or facial swelling
• Discolored tooth

If you’re unsure if you need same-day care from a dental specialist, call the Westchase Esthetic Family Dentistry office and speak with a friendly provider who happily answers your questions.

What should I do during a dental emergency?

It’s important to stay calm during dental emergencies. If you lose a tooth or dental restoration, keep it moist in saliva or milk, and bring it with you to your emergency dental visit. Ice painful or swollen areas of your mouth and place pressure on any bleeding.

What should I expect during emergency dentistry visits?

If you’re in pain because of a dental emergency, your dentist first offers you pain relief. Then they examine your teeth, gums, and mouth, and take dental X-rays if needed. Your dentist also reviews your oral health history before tailoring an emergency dental treatment that’s best for you.

You might need a tooth-colored filling, root canal, crown, dental bridge, soft tissue repair, tooth restoration replacement, or another dental procedure. 

How can I reduce the risk of a dental emergency?

The best ways to reduce your risk of experiencing a dental emergency include wearing a mouthguard when playing contact sports, not chewing on hard objects, and seeing your dentist at least every six months for professional teeth cleanings and dental exams. Call your dentist at the first sign of an oral health problem to prevent troublesome tooth or gum issues.

If you or a family member needs emergency dentistry, call the Westchase Esthetic Family Dentistry office, walk into the office, or schedule an appointment online today.