Dental Emergency Care

Severe pain, a knocked-out tooth, or signs of infection need prompt attention. Other problems, such as a small chip or lost filling without pain, may not require immediate treatment but should still be assessed by a dentist.

Knocked-Out, Loosened, or Chipped Teeth

A knocked-out permanent tooth needs immediate dental care. Pick it up by the crown – the part normally visible above the gums – rather than the root. If it’s dirty, rinse it gently without scrubbing. If you can safely place it back into the socket and it fits easily, do so gently. Do not force it. If the tooth cannot be placed in its socket right away, place the tooth in a container of cold milk while you make your way to the dentist.

Do not put a knocked-out baby tooth back into its socket. Contact a dentist promptly for guidance.

For chipped teeth, be sure to collect the chipped pieces of the tooth as they can often be reattached through bonding. Loosened teeth also require immediate attention.

Toothaches and Severe Tooth Pain

Severe or worsening tooth pain should be evaluated promptly. A toothache may be related to decay, a crack, or an infection inside the tooth. When the inner tissue is infected, root canal therapy may help treat the infection and preserve the tooth. Your dentist will determine the cause of the pain before recommending treatment.

Call our office as soon as possible for an urgent evaluation. Pain near the back of your mouth may be related to wisdom tooth pain, an impacted tooth, or another dental concern. While arranging care, do not place aspirin directly against the tooth or gums.

Objects Stuck Between Teeth or Along the Gums

Food or other debris trapped between teeth can cause discomfort and irritate the gums. Try gently removing it with dental floss. Do not use toothpicks, pins, or other sharp or pointed objects, and do not dig into the gums.

If the object does not come out easily, or you have continuing pain, swelling, or bleeding, call our office for guidance and an appointment.

Swelling or a Possible Dental Abscess

A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus caused by a bacterial infection in or around a tooth. Signs may include persistent tooth pain, swollen gums or jaw, sensitivity, or a bad taste in your mouth. An abscess won’t heal on its own, so getting prompt dental care is essential to keep the infection from spreading.

If you suspect a tooth abscess, contact City Creek Dental in Temple, TX, for an urgent evaluation. We’ll identify the source of the infection and explain your treatment options, which may include draining the abscess, root canal treatment to preserve the tooth, or extraction if the tooth cannot be saved. Our goal is to relieve your discomfort and address the infection so you can get back to feeling like yourself.

If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical care immediately.