5 Signs You Need to See an Emergency Dentist

Whether it’s a toothache or a broken tooth, dental emergencies can cause pain and panic. Good news! Emergency dentistry in Scottsdale, Arizona, can resolve pain and prevent the damage or infection from progressing. At Brilliant Smiles Dentistry, Dr. Terry Peterson and his team are equipped to provide timely and expert care when dental emergencies strike. Call (480) 613-3476 when you experience a dental emergency in Scottsdale and the nearby area.

1. Severe toothache

Tooth pain is a way for your body to tell you something is wrong. Several factors, including infection, breakage, gum disease, etc., can cause toothaches. If the toothache is minor, manage the discomfort with pain medications and at-home solutions like rinsing with warm, salt water. If the tooth pain persists or worsens, visit your dentist right away. 

Treatment for toothaches depends on the cause. The dentist can manage your discomfort with pain medications, antibiotics, and various treatments, including but not limited to: root canals, fillings, crowns, or emergency extractions. Whatever the cause of your toothache, our dentist will provide immediate pain relief while preventing the recurrence of the issue. 

2. Broken, cracked, or fractured tooth

A damaged tooth causes immense pain and exposes your tooth to infection. If you’ve broken your tooth because of a sports accident, fall, or biting into something hard, see an emergency dentist immediately. 

Collect any broken pieces of your tooth and bring them to your dentist. Meanwhile, swish your mouth with salt water and take pain medications to manage discomfort. Possible treatments for a cracked tooth include dental fillings and same-day crowns. Dental extractions are only an option if your tooth is irreparably damaged. 

3. Knocked-out (avulsed) tooth

Whether it happens during your favorite sport or an unexpected fall, a knocked-out tooth is a true dental emergency. Time is of the essence here—if you act quickly, there’s a chance the tooth can be re-implanted. Gently rinse it (don’t scrub it!), keep it moist in milk or saliva, and get to the dentist within 30 minutes for the best shot at saving it.

4. Sign of tooth infection

Facial swelling—especially if accompanied by pain, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth—can be a sign of a serious infection or abscess. If left untreated, this can escalate into a dangerous situation. An emergency dentist can diagnose the issue and begin treatment to relieve pain and eliminate the infection. Possible treatments for an infected or abscessed tooth include antibiotics, root canals, and extractions. 

5. Lost filling or crown

Losing your restoration causes pain and exposes the underlying tooth to injuries and infections. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact your emergency dentist to re-insert or replace your restoration. 

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