Problems that need prompt dental attention
Severe or worsening tooth pain, a badly broken tooth, a knocked-out permanent tooth and swelling around a tooth or jaw warrant prompt attention. A lost filling or crown may also leave the tooth vulnerable, even when it is not painful.
Tell the team if you have a fever, recently injured your face, or have a medical condition that could affect treatment. When calling, give the symptom first. This helps the office understand whether you need an urgent assessment rather than a routine visit.
When to seek emergency medical care
Difficulty breathing or swallowing, rapidly spreading facial or neck swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or a serious facial injury calls for emergency medical care. Call 911 or go to an emergency department when appropriate. Do not wait for an online appointment response.
An emergency department can address immediate medical concerns, but you may still need dental treatment for the underlying tooth problem. The next step should be guided by the urgency and type of symptoms.
What you can do while arranging care
For a knocked-out permanent tooth, hold it by the crown rather than the root, keep it moist and seek dental care immediately. If it cannot be safely reinserted, milk or an appropriate tooth-preservation product can help keep it moist. Never reinsert a knocked-out baby tooth.
For a broken tooth, save any fragments and bring them with you. A cold compress on the outside of the face may help with swelling. Do not put aspirin directly against a tooth or gum, and do not repair a crown or tooth with household glue.
These steps do not replace an examination. Call for instructions specific to your situation, especially if you take medicines, have allergies or are unsure what to do.
What the urgent visit is for
The dentist examines the area and uses imaging when needed to identify the cause. The visit may involve pain relief, stabilizing a damaged tooth or discussing a treatment plan. A filling, crown, root canal or extraction may be considered depending on the findings.
The first visit and the definitive repair are not always the same appointment. Ask what will be done that day, what remains to be completed and when you should return. Same-day and weekend availability must be confirmed directly with the office.
Questions patients ask
Can I send the appointment form for an emergency?
For urgent pain, swelling or an injury, call the office. The form is for appointment requests and may not be read immediately. Seek emergency medical care for serious symptoms.
Do you offer Saturday and Sunday appointments?
Weekend appointments are available through the practice’s scheduling options. Call to confirm the current opening times and the earliest visit for your concern.
Will my tooth need to be removed?
Not necessarily. The dentist needs to assess whether it can be repaired and what treatment is appropriate. A symptom alone does not determine which procedure you need.
More information for your visit
Find practical explanations of dental treatments, oral health and the questions to bring to your appointment.
Read our dental services & oral health guide →
