What Are Dental Emergencies?
A dental emergency is any issue that requires immediate attention to relieve severe pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth. This can include conditions like a knocked-out tooth, a severe toothache, a dental abscess, or an injury to your gums or jaw. Seeking prompt care is crucial to prevent further complications and restore your oral health as quickly as possible.
Bolding Family Dentistry provides emergency dentistry in Columbia, TN. Call 931-388-2279 for urgent dental treatment.
General Dental Emergencies
During office hours, immediate attention will be given to your situation, and you will be seen as soon as possible. After office hours, please give the office a call and follow the instructions provided. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing a serious or life-threatening emergency, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room.
Instructions for Handling Minor Dental Emergencies
Toothache
Gently clean the area around the tooth by rinsing the mouth with warm water and gently flossing to remove any particles that may be lodged in the tissue around the tooth. If the pain continues, or if the area around the affected tooth is warm, please call our office to schedule an appointment.
Cut to Lip, Gum, Cheek, or Tongue
Apply ice to help reduce swelling and apply pressure with a clean cloth or sterile gauze to stop any bleeding. If the bleeding continues, call your physician or visit your local emergency room.
Baby Tooth Knocked Out
Please call our office to schedule an appointment.
Permanent Tooth Knocked Out
Call our office right away and take these steps:
- Do not touch the tooth root, but hold the tooth by the crown and gently rinse the tooth with water.
- Place the tooth back into the socket as quickly as possible and bite down on clean gauze to hold it in place.
- If the tooth cannot be placed in the socket, put the tooth in a small container of milk or saliva and bring it with you to your appointment.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
Gently rinse the area with lukewarm water and place a cold compress on the face to reduce swelling. If you can locate the piece of the broken tooth, place the piece in milk, and bring it with you to the office. If more than half of the tooth is broken off, please call us immediately.
Our Emergency Dental Services
Tooth Extractions
When a tooth is severely damaged, decayed, or infected beyond repair, an extraction may be necessary to protect your overall oral health. We perform extractions with a gentle touch, ensuring the area is fully numb to minimize discomfort.
Root Canal Therapy
This procedure is used to save a severely infected or inflamed tooth by removing the damaged pulp from within. Root canal therapy can relieve intense tooth pain and prevent the need for an extraction, preserving your natural smile.
Dental Crowns and Bridges
If a tooth is cracked, broken, or lost, a crown or bridge can restore its function and appearance. We can provide temporary solutions during an emergency visit and plan for a permanent restoration to protect the tooth from further damage.
Treatment for Dental Abscesses
A dental abscess is a serious infection that can cause severe pain and swelling. We will drain the abscess to relieve pressure and prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection, preventing it from spreading.
Repair for Chipped or Broken Teeth
We can repair chipped or broken teeth using dental bonding or other restorative methods. Prompt repair can prevent further damage, restore the tooth's appearance, and alleviate any associated sensitivity or pain.
Why Choose Bolding Family Dentistry?
Experienced and Compassionate Team: Our dedicated dental professionals are trained to handle a wide range of dental emergencies with skill and care. We prioritize your comfort and work efficiently to alleviate your pain and address the root cause of the problem.
Advanced Dental Technology: We utilize modern technology to accurately diagnose and treat dental emergencies. Our state-of-the-art equipment allows for precise and effective treatments, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care during a stressful time.
Patient-Centered Care: Your well-being is our top priority. We listen to your concerns, explain your treatment options clearly, and create a supportive environment to make your emergency visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
To learn more, call 931-388-2279 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Emergencies
What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?
If possible, retrieve the tooth by holding it by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root. Gently rinse it with water if it's dirty, but do not scrub it. Try to place it back in the socket, or store it in a small container of milk or your own saliva, and call us immediately.
Is a severe toothache a dental emergency?
Yes, a severe, persistent toothache is a sign of a potential infection or other serious issue and should be evaluated right away. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to help manage pain before your appointment.
What counts as a dental emergency?
Common dental emergencies include uncontrolled bleeding, a knocked-out tooth, a jaw injury, severe tooth pain, or swelling in your mouth or face. If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, it is always best to call our office for guidance.
Can I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?
While a hospital emergency room can provide temporary pain relief or manage swelling, they are typically not equipped to treat the underlying dental problem. It's best to see a dentist who can provide a definitive solution.
How can I manage dental pain until my appointment?
You can take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed, apply a cold compress to the affected area, and rinse your mouth with warm salt water. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums, as this can cause tissue burns.