Dental emergencies can happen at any time—whether it’s a sudden toothache, a broken crown, or an unexpected injury. These situations can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure what to do or where to go. At Advanced Family Dental, we are here to help you act quickly and wisely to protect your oral health. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact us at 786.899.0889 to speak with Dr. Triana and our compassionate team.
This guide will help you understand common dental emergencies, what steps to take, and how to stay calm through the process.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
Not every dental issue requires immediate attention, but some conditions do need urgent care to prevent complications. Here are a few examples of situations that are considered emergencies:
- Severe toothache that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Knocked-out (avulsed) tooth, especially if it can be replanted within an hour.
- Cracked or broken tooth with pain or exposed nerves.
- Lost fillings or crowns, particularly if they affect chewing or cause pain.
- Abscess or infection, especially with swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth.
- Bleeding in the mouth that doesn’t stop after gentle pressure.
- Trauma to the jaw or face from a fall or accident.
If you’re unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call us—we’ll guide you on what to do next.
Immediate Steps You Can Take at Home
While we always recommend reaching out to a dental professional, there are a few things you can do at home before coming into the office:
- Toothache: Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water. Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling. Avoid putting aspirin directly on the gums.
- Knocked-out tooth: Pick the tooth up by the crown (top), not the root. Rinse it gently with water if dirty—don’t scrub. Try to place it back in its socket or store it in milk until you reach our office.
- Broken tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside. Save any pieces of the tooth and bring them with you.
- Lost filling or crown: If a crown comes off, you can use over-the-counter dental cement or even toothpaste to temporarily place it back until you see us.
- Swelling or abscess: Rinse with a mild saltwater solution and avoid hot drinks. Call us immediately for treatment.
Why Prompt Care Is So Important
Ignoring a dental emergency can lead to more serious issues, including permanent damage, infection, or even tooth loss. Early intervention gives us the best chance to save the tooth and reduce discomfort.
Delaying care can also increase the need for more complex and costly treatments later on. That’s why Advanced Family Dental prioritizes emergency visits—because your comfort and health can’t wait.
What to Expect at Your Emergency Appointment
At your emergency dental visit with Dr. Triana, you’ll be welcomed into a calm and caring environment. We understand that dental emergencies can be distressing, so our goal is to ease your pain and restore your smile as quickly and gently as possible.
During the visit, we will:
- Conduct a focused examination to assess the problem.
- Take digital X-rays if needed to evaluate internal damage.
- Recommend the most appropriate and immediate treatment.
- Answer all your questions so you feel confident moving forward.
In many cases, we can treat the issue on the same day. Whether it’s placing a temporary restoration, prescribing antibiotics, or starting root canal therapy, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not all emergencies are avoidable, good dental habits can significantly reduce your risk. Here are a few tips:
- Brush and floss daily to maintain strong teeth and gums.
- Wear a mouthguard when playing contact sports.
- Avoid chewing hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, or pens.
- Keep up with your regular dental check-ups every 6 months.
Prevention starts with awareness, and we’re here to educate and support your family’s long-term dental health.
You’re Not Alone—We’re Just a Call Away
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, staying calm and getting the right help can make all the difference. At Advanced Family Dental, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Our office is equipped to handle urgent dental care with compassion and efficiency.
Call us today at 786.899.0889 to speak with Dr. Triana or to schedule an emergency appointment. We’re here when you need us most.