Call (254) 556-3973 in the event of a dental emergency. We will make every effort to see you the same day or direct you to the appropriate specialist.
A dental emergency is a sudden or severe dental problem that requires immediate professional care. Receiving prompt emergency care can prevent dental problems like missing teeth, tooth damage, soft tissue damage, and more. We welcome patients to contact our office so we can pinpoint their problems and find the best solution. Emergency dentistry is one of the general dental services we provide to the public.
Emergency Dentist Services in Groesbeck, TX
Some of our emergency dental services can treat these common dental problems:
Severe Toothache
A toothache can be caused by decay, an infection, or something stuck between your teeth. If you have a sudden or intense toothache, follow these steps:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Floss gently to remove any food stuck between your teeth.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to reduce discomfort.
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.
- Avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums, as it can irritate.
If the pain doesn’t disappear or worsen, visit our office immediately. You may have an infection that needs professional treatment.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a serious emergency, but acting quickly can save the tooth. If this happens:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (the top part), not the root. Touching the root can damage delicate tissues.
- If the tooth is dirty, rinse it with water, but do not scrub it or remove any attached tissue.
- Try to gently place the tooth back into its socket. If this isn’t possible, keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk or saliva.
- Get to the dentist immediately. A knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved if treated within 30 minutes.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth can be painful and lead to further damage if left untreated. If you break a tooth:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.
- If you find the broken piece, store it in milk or water and take it to the dentist.
- Avoid chewing on the injured side until you get treatment.
Even if the chip is small and doesn’t hurt, you should still visit our office to prevent the damage from worsening.
Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown falls out, your tooth may become sensitive to hot or cold temperatures. Until you can see a dentist:
- If a crown falls out, try to place it back over the tooth using dental adhesive or toothpaste. Do not force it.
- If you lose a filling, you can fill the hole with sugar-free gum or temporary dental cement (available at pharmacies).
- Avoid chewing on the affected tooth.
Seeing a dentist quickly can prevent further damage or infection.
Abscessed Tooth
A dental abscess is a serious infection that can spread if not treated. Signs of an abscess include severe pain, swelling, a pimple-like bump on the gums, and fever. If you suspect an abscess:
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce bacteria and draw out infection.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers to ease discomfort.
- Avoid poking or pressing on the swollen area.
- Seek emergency dental care immediately.
An abscess won’t go away independently and requires professional treatment, such as antibiotics or drainage.
Bleeding Gums or Soft Tissue Injury
If you injure your gums, lips, or tongue and experience bleeding:
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater.
- Apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth to stop the bleeding.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
Seek medical attention if the bleeding doesn’t stop after 10–15 minutes.
Objects Stuck Between Teeth
If something is stuck between your teeth and causing pain:
- Try using dental floss to gently remove the object.
- Avoid using sharp tools like pins or toothpicks, as they can damage your gums.
- If you can’t remove the object, visit us to prevent irritation or infection.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Taking care of your teeth and being mindful of potential risks can help you prevent unexpected dental problems.
Practicing good oral hygiene is one of the most important steps in preventing dental emergencies. Brushing your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste removes plaque and food particles that can lead to decay and gum disease. Flossing daily cleans the spaces between your teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach, reducing the risk of cavities and infections. Using mouthwash can also help kill bacteria and keep your mouth fresh. When you maintain these habits consistently, your teeth and gums stay stronger, making them less likely to develop painful problems.
Regular dental visits are another key part of preventing emergencies. Seeing us every six months for a checkup and cleaning allows them to catch small issues before they become big. A small cavity, for example, can be treated with a simple filling, but if left untreated, it could lead to a severe toothache or even an infection. We can also check for early signs of gum disease, which can cause pain and tooth loss if ignored. Addressing dental concerns early reduces the chance of facing an urgent dental emergency.
Protecting your teeth from damage is also essential. Wearing a mouthguard can prevent broken or knocked-out teeth if you play sports. People who grind their teeth at night should consider a nightguard to avoid excessive wear and fractures. Everyday habits also matter. Using your teeth to open packages, biting on hard objects like ice or pens, or chewing on tough foods can all lead to cracks or breaks. Being mindful of what you put in your mouth can help you avoid painful injuries.
Your diet also plays a role in keeping your teeth healthy. Sugary and acidic foods can weaken enamel, making teeth more prone to decay and sensitivity. Hard or sticky foods can also cause fillings or crowns to loosen. Choosing tooth-friendly foods like fruits, vegetables, and dairy products can help strengthen your teeth and reduce the risk of cavities.
It’s also important to recognize early signs of dental problems before they become emergencies. Tooth pain, sensitivity, swelling, or bleeding gums should never be ignored. If you notice something unusual, scheduling a dentist appointment right away can prevent a minor issue from becoming a serious problem.
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
Anyone can experience a dental emergency. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about emergency dental care.
How do I know if I have a dental emergency?
You may have a dental emergency if you experience severe pain, bleeding, swelling, or trauma to your teeth or gums. Common signs include a knocked-out tooth, a toothache that doesn’t respond to pain relievers, an abscess, or damage to dental restorations like crowns or fillings. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to contact your dentist for advice rather than delay treatment.
Can a cracked or broken tooth be fixed?
Yes, a cracked or broken tooth can often be repaired, depending on the extent of the damage. Minor cracks may only require bonding or a dental filling, while more severe breaks might need a crown or root canal treatment. If the tooth is severely fractured and cannot be saved, it may need to be extracted and replaced with an implant or bridge.
Can I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
You can visit an ER for a dental emergency involving severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or facial trauma. However, most ERs are not equipped to provide specialized dental care and may only manage pain or infections temporarily. It’s best to contact an emergency dentist directly for comprehensive treatment of dental issues.
What can I do to prevent dental emergencies?
Preventing dental emergencies involves maintaining good oral hygiene, wearing mouthguards during sports, and avoiding chewing hard objects like ice or pen caps. Regular dental check-ups can catch potential issues early and reduce the risk of emergencies. Addressing dental concerns promptly, such as repairing loose crowns or treating cavities, also minimizes the likelihood of sudden problems.
Are chipped teeth considered a dental emergency?
A minor chip may not be an emergency, but larger chips that expose the tooth’s inner layers or cause sharp edges can lead to pain, sensitivity, or further damage. If you chip a tooth, rinse your mouth, save fragments, and contact your dentist. Emergency care may be required to restore the tooth and prevent complications.
How can I prepare for a dental emergency?
Being prepared for a dental emergency can save valuable time. Keep an emergency dental kit that includes gauze, a small container, dental cement, and your dentist’s contact information. Knowing the nearest emergency dental clinic and understanding basic first aid for dental issues can help you respond quickly in urgent situations.
Contact Us Today
Call Groesbeck Family Dental for emergency dental treatment at (254) 556-3973. You can schedule a dental appointment online if you have a dental problem but do not require emergency dental care.