What To Do In A Dental Emergency
You can’t plan for a dental emergency, but you can know what to do if one happens. Whether your child takes a tumble, you wake up with sudden jaw pain, or a crown pops off during lunch, dental issues often show up without warning, and they don’t wait for a convenient time.
At Parker & Pennington Dentistry in Jacksonville Beach, FL, we offer same-day emergency care and guidance when the unexpected strikes. Here’s how to stay calm, protect your smile, and know when to call.
When to Call Right Away
Not every dental issue is an emergency, but some situations need immediate care to prevent lasting damage. If you’re dealing with pain, swelling, bleeding, or a damaged or knocked-out tooth, it’s best to call us right away. Our team can help determine what’s urgent and get you seen as quickly as possible.
Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do
Here are some of the most frequent emergencies we see in our office, and what you can do to protect your smile until we see you.
- Toothache or Swelling: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water and take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed. Swelling may be a sign of infection, so don’t wait. Call us promptly so we can treat the problem before it worsens.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: If you can, gently place the tooth back in its socket and bite down on gauze to keep it in place. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or your saliva and get to our office quickly.
- Broken, Chipped, or Cracked Tooth: Save any broken pieces and rinse your mouth with warm water. A cold compress can reduce swelling. Quick treatment can relieve pain, prevent infection, and may help us save the tooth.
- Lost Filling or Crown: Try using a bit of toothpaste or temporary dental cement to place a crown back in position until your visit. Avoid chewing on that side and call us to get it repaired properly.
- Dental Abscess: This type of infection can become serious if left untreated. Rinse with warm salt water several times a day and contact us right away if you notice a painful bump on your gums, swelling, or fever.
We’re Here When You Need Us
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but you don’t have to handle them alone. Our team is here to relieve your pain, repair the damage, and guide you through the next steps for long-term care. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been coming here for years, our team will treat you with compassion, urgency, and respect.
Call our dental office located in Jacksonville Beach, FL to schedule a same-day visit. We’re here to help you feel better fast.
