Emergency Dentistry in Tempe, AZ
Compassionate Dental Care When You Need It Most
New Patient Special
emergency Exam
Tempe’s Trusted Emergency Dental Team
Why People Love Desert Breeze Dentistry
Understanding Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency can occur at any time, often when least expected.
Knowing what qualifies as a dental emergency is crucial for taking the right action and preventing further damage or complications. Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe Toothache: Pain that is persistent and intense, signaling underlying issues.
- Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Teeth: Accidents can lead to significant dental injuries that require immediate attention.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Time is of the essence in trying to save an avulsed tooth.
- Lost Fillings or Crowns: Leaving the underlying tooth structure unprotected can lead to further damage.
- Abscess or Infection: Marked by severe pain, swelling, and possibly fever, indicating an infection that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Signs It's Time for Urgent Dental Care
Understanding the signs of a dental emergency can help you act swiftly and appropriately.
These signs include:
- Severe Pain: If pain disrupts your daily activities or sleep, it's a clear signal to seek immediate care.
- Swelling in the Mouth or Jaw: Swelling can indicate an infection requiring urgent treatment.
- Bleeding that Won't Stop: Persistent bleeding is a sign of trauma or disease needing immediate attention.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
In a dental emergency, taking the right steps before you reach the dentist can make a significant difference in the outcome:
- For a Knocked-Out Tooth: Keep it moist at all times. Try placing it back in the socket without touching the root, or keep it between your cheek and gums, or in milk.
- For a Cracked Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water immediately to clean the area. Apply a cold compress to minimize swelling.
- For Toothache: Rinse with warm water to clean your mouth. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between your teeth.
Avoiding Common Dental Emergencies
Maintaining Regular Dental Checkups
Wearing Protective Gear
Avoiding Hard Foods
How Dental Emergencies Are Treated
Pain Management
Immediate relief from pain through medication or by treating the source of the pain.
Restorative Treatments
Using fillings, crowns, or dental bonding to repair damaged teeth.
Root Canal Therapy
To treat infections within the tooth pulp and relieve severe pain or abscesses.
Tooth Extractions
As a last resort for teeth that are beyond saving to eliminate pain and prevent further oral health issues.
Preventative Guidance and Aftercare
Beyond treating the immediate emergency, we're dedicated to helping you maintain optimal oral health. We provide personalized advice on avoiding future dental emergencies and offer comprehensive care to address any underlying issues that could contribute to potential emergencies down the line.
for the Whole Family
Comprehensive CareFamily Scheduling & Extended Hours
Comforting Amenities
Advanced Dental Technology
Whole Family
Care for the Family Scheduling & Extended Hours
Comforting Amenities
Advanced Dental Technology
Frequently
Asked Questions
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency includes situations such as severe toothache, knocked-out teeth, chipped or broken teeth causing pain, significant swelling or abscesses, and uncontrolled oral bleeding. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek immediate dental care.
What should I do if I have a knocked-out tooth?
If you have a knocked-out (avulsed) tooth, try to handle it by the crown, not the root. Rinse it gently without scrubbing. If possible, reinsert it into its socket, or keep it moist by placing it in milk or between your cheek and gums, and seek emergency dental care immediately.
Can a chipped tooth be considered a dental emergency?
A chipped tooth that doesn't cause pain may not be an immediate emergency but should still be examined by a dentist soon to prevent further damage. However, if the chip is large, exposes the tooth's inner layers, or causes significant pain, it should be treated as an emergency.
How can I manage toothache pain before getting to the dentist?
Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between your teeth. Avoid putting aspirin directly on your gums as this can burn gum tissue. Over-the-counter pain relievers can temporarily alleviate pain, but it's important to see a dentist as soon as possible.
What is the best way to deal with an abscessed tooth?
An abscess is a serious infection that can spread and affect your overall health. Rinse your mouth with mild saltwater several times to reduce pain and swelling. Do not delay seeking professional dental care, as abscesses require treatment to prevent more serious health issues.
How can I avoid dental emergencies?
Preventive measures include maintaining good oral hygiene, wearing mouthguards during sports, avoiding hard foods that can crack or chip teeth, and regular dental check-ups to address any potential issues before they become emergencies.
What should I expect during an emergency dental visit?
During an emergency visit, the primary goal is to alleviate pain and address the immediate issue. Your dentist will assess the situation, possibly take X-rays, and determine the best course of action to treat the emergency, which may involve temporary solutions until a permanent treatment can be provided.
How quickly do I need to see a dentist in a dental emergency?
Timing can be critical, especially in cases of knocked-out teeth or severe infection. Contacting a dentist immediately for advice and to arrange an urgent visit is essential. Most dental emergencies benefit from prompt treatment to prevent complications or further damage.
Are emergency dental treatments more expensive?
The cost of emergency dental care can vary depending on the specific treatment needed. At Desert Breeze Dentistry, we understand the stress associated with emergencies and strive to provide affordable, transparent pricing for all urgent care services.
Does insurance cover emergency dental care?
Many dental insurance plans offer coverage for emergency care, but coverage can vary. We recommend checking with your provider for details about your emergency care benefits. Our office can assist with insurance questions and provide information on financing options if needed.