Emergency Dentist
Services
Houston, TX
Do you have a dental emergency that needs attention now? Call Smiles of Memorial in Houston!
If you experience a dental emergency, our team is here to give you the care you need. We are happy to care for several types of dental emergencies, including:
- Severe, lasting toothaches or other tooth pain
- Extreme mouth pain
- A swollen jaw
- A knocked-out tooth
- A chipped or broken tooth
- Damage to the soft tissues of the mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, lips, and gums
- A cracked or fractured tooth
- A partially knocked-out tooth
- A lost dental restoration, such as a filling or crown
If you suffer from one of these, or another type of dental emergency in Houston, Texas, please contact our office. Our team is prepared to provide you with instructions on what you need to do or schedule you to come to our office to meet with Dr. Viet Tran.
If you have experienced trauma to the head, neck, or have a major cut, we recommend that call your general physician or go to the emergency room. While we are able to treat your oral emergency, we want you to be sure you are ok before coming to see us.
Q: When should I Consider seeking emergency dental care?
A : You should consider seeking emergency dental care in the following situations:
Severe Toothache: If you experience intense and continuous tooth pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication or home remedies, it may indicate an underlying dental problem that requires immediate attention.
Dental Trauma: In case of a knocked-out tooth, broken tooth, or injury to the mouth or jaw, seeking emergency care is crucial to increase the chances of saving the tooth and preventing further complications.
Uncontrolled Bleeding: If you have oral bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure or persists for a prolonged period, it is important to seek immediate dental care.
Swelling or Abscess: Facial swelling, especially when accompanied by fever and difficulty swallowing or breathing, may indicate an oral infection or abscess that requires urgent treatment.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional help if you are unsure about the severity of your dental condition.
Q: What types of dental emergencies require immediate attention?
A: Certain types of dental emergencies that require immediate attention include severe toothaches, knocked-out or broken teeth, uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth, facial swelling, oral infections or abscesses, and injuries to the mouth or jaw.
Q: How can I manage severe toothache until I see a dentist?
A: Managing a severe toothache before seeing a dentist can provide temporary relief. Here are some steps you can take:
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation and clean the area.
Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to alleviate pain. Follow the recommended dosage.
Apply a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling and numb the area.
Avoid hot or cold foods and beverages that may exacerbate the pain.
Use dental numbing gels or clove oil on the affected area for temporary relief.
Remember, these are temporary measures. It is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible to address the underlying cause of the toothache.
Q: Should I go to the emergency room or a dentist for a dental emergency?
A: For a dental emergency, it is generally recommended to visit a dentist rather than the emergency room. Dentists are specialized in oral health and can provide the most appropriate and immediate care for dental emergencies, whereas emergency rooms may have limited dental resources available.
Q: Does dental insurance cover emergency dental treatments?
A: Dental insurance typically covers emergency dental treatments. However, coverage can vary depending on the specific insurance plan and the nature of the emergency treatment needed. It is important to review your dental insurance policy or contact your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage for emergency dental care.
Q. I bit my lip or tongue and it won't stop bleeding. Should I go to the emergency?
A: If you accidentally bite your lip or tongue and it won’t stop bleeding, it may be best to go to the emergency room. The doctors there can assess the severity of the injury and provide the appropriate treatment, such as sutures, to stop the bleeding and promote healing.
Q: I have a dental abscess, it's causing severe pain. Is this considered a dental emergency?
A: Yes, a dental abscess is a serious condition and should be treated as a dental emergency. An abscess indicates an infection that requires prompt attention to prevent further complications. Contact your dentist immediately to explain your symptoms and seek appropriate treatment to alleviate the pain and address the underlying infection.
Q: I chipped my tooth, but it doesn't hurt. Do I still need to see a dentist urgently?
A: Even if a chipped tooth doesn’t cause pain, it is still important to see a dentist urgently. A chipped tooth can leave the inner layers of the tooth exposed and vulnerable to further damage or infection. Your dentist can evaluate the extent of the chip and recommend the appropriate treatment to restore the tooth’s appearance and protect it from further harm.
WHAT PATIENTS HAVE TO SAY
