Emergency Treatment Q&A

What is emergency treatment?

A dental emergency is any concern that can’t wait for a regular appointment. When you have a time-sensitive dental concern, it’s important to contact Bay Dental right away. The steps you and your dental team take to preserve your oral health may save you time, reduce your need for extensive dental work, and protect against future damage.

How do I know if I need emergency treatment?

Reach out to the Bay Dental team if you experience:

• Severe tooth pain
• Knocked-out tooth
• Fractured tooth
• Suddenly swollen gums
• Fever
• Jaw or facial swelling
• Bleeding that won’t stop
• Lost or cracked restoration

If you have tooth pain that accompanies swollen gums, fever, and a small bump near your affected tooth, you may have a dental abscess. This pus-filled pocket is a serious threat to your overall health. A ruptured abscess can cause severe pain. It may also spread potentially harmful bacteria into your bloodstream.

How can I protect my teeth while I wait for my emergency visit?

Try not to panic if you experience a dental emergency. Call Bay Dental so the team can coordinate emergency treatment as quickly as possible. In the meantime, the team may recommend tips to preserve your tooth function and relieve your pain.

Knocked-out teeth

If you have a knocked-out tooth, locate it and try to insert it back into the socket. Your gums may feel too tender and swollen to reinsert the tooth. If you can’t fit your tooth back into the socket, store it in a glass of milk or saliva and bring it to your appointment.

Cracked teeth

The team may be able to reattach the fractured portion of your tooth. If possible, locate the missing piece and gently clean it to remove any bacteria. You can bring the fractured piece to your emergency visit.

Severe toothache

Severe tooth pain is a sign of many dental concerns, from food particles stuck in between your teeth to a dental abscess. Until the team uncovers the cause of your pain, make sure to avoid anti-inflammatory medications. Instead, apply an ice pack to the area to reduce pain and swelling.

Lost restoration

A lost crown, filling, or bridge requires prompt care. If possible, bring the restoration to your visit. The team may either restore the prosthetic or take impressions to create a new one.

Call Bay Dental today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about emergency treatment.