Dental emergencies can be stressful, painful, and unpredictable. When they happen, you want immediate relief and expert care. At Signature Smile Family Dentistry in Rockledge, FL, Dr. Hilary Hulland-Prill and her team are here to provide urgent dental care when you need it most.
If your emergency occurs during regular office hours, we will make every effort to see you the same day. However, if your emergency happens after hours, you may need to visit an urgent care center or the emergency room for immediate assistance until we can see you. Below, we’ll explain what qualifies as a dental emergency and how to handle different urgent dental situations.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
Certain dental problems require immediate attention to prevent further complications. If you are experiencing any of the following issues, contact our office right away for guidance on your next steps.
Common Dental Emergencies
- Severe Toothache – Persistent or throbbing pain may indicate an infection, decay, or an abscess.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth – Biting down on something hard, accidents, or teeth grinding can cause fractures or chips.
- Knocked-Out Tooth – If a tooth has been completely dislodged, try to preserve it in milk or a tooth preservation kit and bring it to your appointment.
- Loose Tooth – While common in children, loose adult teeth can be a sign of trauma or gum disease.
- Dental Abscess – A painful infection near the root of a tooth or in the gums that requires immediate treatment.
- Lost Filling or Crown – A missing filling or crown exposes the tooth to potential damage and sensitivity.
- Soft Tissue Injury – Cuts or lacerations to the gums, tongue, or inside of the mouth.
- Orthodontic Issues – Broken braces, wires, or brackets that cause discomfort.
- Uncontrolled Bleeding – Significant bleeding in the mouth that does not stop after applying pressure.
- Jaw Pain or Dislocation – Sudden or severe jaw pain, clicking, or misalignment that impairs function.
Signs You Need Immediate Dental Care
- Persistent pain that does not subside
- Facial swelling, especially around the jaw or cheek
- Redness or tenderness in the gums
- Fever along with dental pain
- Difficulty eating or speaking
- Uncontrollable bleeding
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact our office immediately. For severe infections, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing, visit an urgent care center or emergency room.
What to Do Before You See the Dentist
If your dental emergency happens outside of our normal business hours, you can take the following steps to manage pain and protect your teeth until your appointment.
- Toothache – Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the affected tooth to remove debris. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums.
- Knocked-Out Tooth – Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. Place it in milk or a tooth preservation kit and seek dental care immediately.
- Broken or Chipped Tooth – Rinse with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Lost Filling or Crown – Cover the exposed tooth with dental cement (available at drugstores) or sugar-free gum as a temporary solution.
- Bleeding Gums or Soft Tissue Injury – Apply firm pressure using a clean cloth or gauze to stop the bleeding.
- Abscess or Swelling – Apply a cold compress and take over-the-counter pain relievers until you can see the dentist.
Why Choose Signature Smile Family Dentistry for Emergency Care?
At Signature Smile Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality care when you need it most. Our advanced technology and experienced team allow us to diagnose and treat emergencies efficiently.
Our Approach to Emergency Dentistry
- Same-Day Appointments – We strive to accommodate urgent cases as quickly as possible.
- State-of-the-Art Technology – Our modern diagnostic tools allow for precise and effective treatment.
- Personalized Treatment Plans – Every emergency is different; we tailor our approach to your specific needs.
- Compassionate Care – We prioritize your comfort and well-being to ensure a stress-free experience.
While hospital emergency rooms can provide temporary relief, they often lack the necessary equipment and expertise required for dental emergencies. That’s why it’s essential to follow up with a dentist as soon as possible for comprehensive care.
Handling Dental Emergencies After a Tooth Extraction
If you recently had a tooth extracted and are experiencing continued pain or bleeding, contact our office immediately. In some cases, additional care may be required to ensure proper healing. If the original provider is unavailable, Dr. Prill can evaluate your condition and provide the necessary treatment.
Contact Our Emergency Dentist in Rockledge, FL
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, Signature Smile Family Dentistry is here to help. Dr. Hilary Hulland-Prill and our experienced dental team are dedicated to providing prompt and effective care to relieve pain and restore your oral health.
When it comes to dental emergencies, fast action can make all the difference in preserving your smile. Call us today at (321) 633-4020.
