Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency can happen at any time, and when it does, getting prompt, professional care makes all the difference. Our team at Mt. Hermon Dental Care is here to help you when you need it most, providing fast and effective treatment to relieve pain, prevent further damage, and protect your smile.
What is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth, gums, or jaw that requires immediate attention. Left untreated, many dental emergencies can worsen quickly and lead to more serious, costly problems. Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe toothache or pain
- Knocked-out or loose tooth
- Cracked or fractured tooth
- Lost filling or crown
- Broken dental appliance
- Abscess or oral infection
- Soft tissue injury to the gums, lips, or tongue
- Object lodged between teeth
What To Do in a Dental Emergency
Knowing how to respond before you reach our office can make a significant difference in the outcome of your treatment. Stay calm, assess the situation, and contact us immediately. The sooner you are seen, the better your chances of saving the affected tooth and avoiding complications.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. Pick the tooth up by the crown, avoiding the root, and gently rinse it with water if dirty. If possible, place it back in the socket or keep it moist in a glass of milk while you make your way to our office. The best outcomes occur when treatment happens within 30 minutes, so contact us immediately.
Severe Toothache
A severe or persistent toothache is often a sign of an underlying issue such as deep decay, infection, or a cracked tooth. Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the tooth to rule out trapped debris. Do not rely on pain medication alone to manage it, contact us as soon as possible so we can identify the cause and provide lasting relief.
Lost Filling or Crown
Losing a filling or crown leaves your tooth vulnerable to sensitivity, damage, and decay. If a crown has come off, keep it safe and bring it to your appointment — in some cases it can be recemented. Dental wax or temporary cement, available at most pharmacies, can help protect the exposed area until you are seen.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a serious infection that develops at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gum tissue. It will not resolve on its own and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
What are the signs of a dental abscess?
Symptoms may include severe throbbing pain, swelling, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth. If you experience any of these signs, contact our office immediately. The sooner an abscess is treated, the better the outcome for your tooth and your overall health.
How is a dental abscess treated?
Treatment typically involves draining the infection and addressing the source, which may require a root canal or, in more severe cases, an extraction. We will evaluate the affected area and recommend the most conservative approach to eliminate the infection and restore your comfort.
How much does emergency dental treatment cost?
The cost of emergency dental care varies depending on the nature and severity of the situation. A simple repair such as recementation of a crown will differ significantly from treatment for an abscess or a knocked-out tooth. We will assess your situation as quickly as possible and walk you through the costs involved before proceeding, so you can make an informed decision about your care.
Why prompt treatment is better than waiting
Delaying emergency dental care almost always leads to greater damage, more complex treatment, and higher costs down the line. What may start as a minor crack or mild infection can escalate into a situation requiring extraction or surgery if left unaddressed. Seeking care at the first sign of a problem gives us the best chance of saving your tooth and minimizing your discomfort.
What To Do While Waiting for Your Appointment
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, the first thing to do is stay calm and contact our office right away. We will do our best to see you as soon as possible and can advise you over the phone on the best steps to take while you make your way in.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce discomfort while you wait to be seen. A cold compress applied to the outside of the cheek can help manage swelling. Avoid chewing on the affected side and keep the area as clean as possible without aggravating it further.
If a tooth has been knocked out, pick it up by the crown and avoid touching the root. Rinse it gently with water and place it back in the socket if you can, or keep it in a glass of milk. Getting to our office quickly gives you the best chance of saving the tooth.
If a crown or filling has come loose, keep it safe and bring it with you to your appointment. Dental wax or temporary cement, available at most pharmacies, can help protect the exposed tooth in the meantime. Avoid eating on that side until you have been seen.
Do not attempt to repair or adjust anything yourself. Home remedies and temporary fixes can sometimes make the situation worse and complicate treatment. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies and will have you feeling more comfortable as quickly as possible.
The steps you take before arriving at our office can make a real difference in the outcome of your treatment. There is no substitute for prompt professional care, and at Mt. Hermon Dental Care, we are here to help you through it.
Dental Emergency Care You Can Count On
Your comfort and care are our top priority at Mt. Hermon Dental Care, and that extends to the moments when you need us most. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, do not wait. Contact our Scotts Valley office today so we can get you the prompt, compassionate care you deserve.
