What Should You Do During a Dental Emergency?
What you do before reaching the dentist may help protect the affected area and reduce discomfort.
For swelling, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water and apply a cold compress to the outside of your face.
If a permanent tooth has been knocked out, keep it moist in milk or saliva if you can and contact our office promptly.
For bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the area. If the bleeding is severe or will not stop, seek emergency medical attention.
Avoid delaying care when you have severe pain, significant swelling, or a damaged or knocked-out tooth. Even when symptoms temporarily improve, the underlying problem may still require treatment.
What Counts as an Emergency?
Highland Dental Center treats a range of urgent dental problems, including injuries, sudden tooth pain, damaged restorations, and soft-tissue injuries inside the mouth.
Common dental emergencies we see include:
- Chipped or fractured teeth after a fall or accident
- Knocked-out or displaced teeth
- Severe or lingering tooth sensitivity, particularly when accompanied by pain or swelling
- Lost crowns or fillings that cause pain or sharp edges
- Sudden pain related to a failing filling
- Swelling that may indicate an abscess or infection
- Pain following recent dental work
- Injuries to the gums, lips, cheeks, or other soft tissues
When needed, we use Digital X-rays and CBCT imaging to evaluate the affected area and gather the information necessary to determine the appropriate treatment.
Can I Get a Same-Day Emergency Dental Appointment?
We reserve appointment availability for dental emergencies because prompt treatment can make a difference. When you call, we prioritize triage over the phone, then fit most patients in that day. We coordinate care, so you avoid unnecessary pain and prevent minor issues from becoming major procedures.
What to tell us when you call:
- Nature of the problem and when it started
- Any recent dental work or medical conditions
- If you’re traveling or out of state, mention that
What Happens During an Emergency Dental Appointment?
Your first visit focuses on diagnosis, pain control, and a clear plan. Expect a friendly check-in, a brief review of your medical history, and targeted X-rays or CBCT images when needed. Dr. Theurer examines the area, explains findings in plain language, and offers options that protect teeth and health. We avoid surprises by walking you through costs and follow-up steps.
On the day of your visit, we may:
- Provide relief for pain and swelling
- Stabilize or temporarily repair damaged teeth
- Prescribe antibiotics if an infection exists
- Schedule follow-up restorative work when appropriate
We use modern tools like the iTero Digital Scanner and Panoramic X-ray to speed diagnosis. Our team explains every step so you know what to expect next.
A Calming, Compassionate Approach to Emergency Dental Care
We aim to make emergency visits feel calmer and kinder. We keep a warm, tidy office and offer amenities to ease nerves: blankets, laughing gas when appropriate, earplugs, warm eucalyptus face towels, and massage chairs for those who want them. Free Wi-Fi and a small goodie bag help families cope while they wait. Our staff balances efficiency with empathy, so you leave feeling cared for.
We practice clear communication. You’ll hear why we recommend a treatment, what it does, and how it affects long-term oral health. We focus on preventing future emergencies through practical instructions and follow-up.
Emergency Dental Aftercare
After treatment, we will give you instructions for caring for the area, managing discomfort, and supporting recovery. If additional restorative care is needed, our team will help arrange your follow-up visit.
Contact us if you develop new or worsening symptoms such as fever, spreading swelling, or severe pain.
If swelling begins to interfere with breathing or swallowing, bleeding cannot be controlled, or you develop another potentially life-threatening symptom, seek emergency medical attention.
What Our Emergency Dental Patients Say
It is important to feel confident in the dental team you turn to during an emergency. One patient shared the following about their experience at Highland Dental Center:
“Everyone in the office was wonderful. With an emergency situation & being out of state they got me in & evaluated quickly. I’m thankful to Highland Dental Center.” – Kimberly A.
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
What is considered a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is generally a dental injury, infection, or sudden problem that requires prompt attention because of severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or the risk of permanent tooth damage. Examples include a knocked-out tooth, significant swelling, a fractured tooth, or severe tooth pain.
Can Highland Dental Center see emergency patients the same day?
We typically see emergency dental patients the same day. When you call, our team will ask about your symptoms and determine how quickly you need to be evaluated.
What should I do if my tooth is knocked out?
Contact our office promptly. If possible, keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva while you seek dental care.
Should I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?
Many dental emergencies are best treated by a dentist. However, difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapidly spreading facial or neck swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or significant facial trauma can require emergency medical care.
Can a lost crown or filling be a dental emergency?
A lost crown or filling may require prompt dental care if it causes significant pain, sensitivity, sharp edges, or leaves the tooth vulnerable to further damage. Contact our office so we can help determine how soon you should be seen.
What happens during an emergency dental visit?
Your visit typically includes an examination of the affected area and diagnostic imaging when needed. Dr. Theurer will explain the findings, address the immediate problem when possible, and discuss any necessary follow-up treatment.
Ready to Get Care?
If you’re facing a dental emergency, call Highland Dental Center today to schedule a same-day visit. We’re here to relieve pain, protect teeth, and guide you through the next steps. See what everyone’s smiling about—our team will treat you with warmth and clear, practical care. Call today to schedule your visit.