Emergency Dentist

Picture this scenario: You’re enjoying a night out with friends when suddenly, you bite down on hard candy and feel a sharp pain in your tooth. Or, perhaps you woke up in the middle of the night with a throbbing toothache that won’t go away. Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and knowing what to do can save you from experiencing intense pain and discomfort.

A dental emergency can be stressful and, in some cases, scary! If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact Complete Dental Care at our Spokane, Washington, or Kellogg, Idaho office, and we will get you in as soon as possible.

Types of Dental Emergencies

CRACKED OR BROKEN TOOTH

Cracking or breaking a tooth is common, especially when participating in an activity. We want you to be prepared when an emergency arises.

When a molar has been cracked or broken, you are at high risk of accumulating decay and cavities in that tooth. If you feel that one (or multiple) of your molars is broken or cracked, you should immediately come to the office to seal off the break.

Different than molars, when a front tooth is injured, there are other repair options. In some cases, it is possible to reattach the broken piece to the original tooth. We may also recommend a dental bonding procedure or crowns if you’ve chipped or broken a tooth. Dr. T.J. Scarborough or Dr. Nick Sampalis can discuss all the best options with you.

KNOCKED-OUT TOOTH

Getting a tooth knocked out can be a stressful experience and can cause panic. If this happens to you or someone in your family, please come to the dentist immediately.

Sometimes, we can save the tooth and return it to its original spot. If we can’t keep the tooth, other options exist to make your smile complete again. Depending on the case, a dental bridge or a dental implant can be an option.

TOOTH SENSITIVITY

Experiencing tooth sensitivity from hot or cold foods and drinks is common, but the area could be decaying if you have constant sensitivity in any teeth. When the sensitivity is long-lasting, visit Dr. Scarborough or Dr. Sampalis before it worsens.

How We Can Help

We take dental emergencies seriously and want to share with you our step-by-step guide on how to treat them.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

The first step in treating a dental emergency is to assess the situation. Take a deep breath and examine your mouth to determine the extent of the injury. If you’ve experienced trauma resulting in bleeding or broken teeth, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately. Call us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment for less severe emergencies, such as a lost filling or chipped tooth.

Step 2: Manage Pain and Swelling

Nothing is worse than experiencing pain and discomfort, especially during a dental emergency. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate pain until you can see your dentist. Applying a cold compress to the affected area can reduce swelling and provide relief.

Step 3: Fix the Problem

When you visit us for a dental emergency, we will assess the affected area and determine a plan of action. For example, if you’ve lost a filling, we will likely replace it with a temporary one until a permanent solution is practical.

Step 4: Follow-Up Care

After we have fixed the issue, we will provide you with instructions for follow-up care to ensure that the affected area heals correctly. This may include avoiding certain foods, maintaining proper oral hygiene, or following a medication regimen.

Step 5: Prevention

The best way to prevent dental emergencies is to practice good oral hygiene and visit your dentist regularly for routine cleanings and check-ups. We can identify and treat potential dental problems before a dental emergency occurs. Additionally, wearing a mouthguard during physical activity can protect your teeth from trauma and injury.