What is considered a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is an emergency that needs attention right away. Dental cleaning is not a dental emergency. A scheduled filling or a crown appointment that doesn't involve pain or a missing tooth is not a dental emergency. However, if you have inflammation due to an infection or pus causing swelling, that is a dental emergency. Accidents that result in a knocked-out tooth or severe tooth pain preventing sleep are also dental emergencies. In such cases, you should call us immediately. If you're unsure whether your situation is a dental emergency, call or text us, especially after hours, to discuss it. Sometimes it's a case-by-case determination.
What are the common types of dental emergencies and what can be done?
Common dental emergencies include tooth pain, abscess or swelling, wisdom tooth pain, and throbbing toothaches. For throbbing toothaches, call us immediately. Abscesses or swelling that is not draining needs to be addressed right away. Wisdom tooth pain causing facial swelling or severe discomfort also requires immediate attention. Bleeding or inflamed gums usually do not require emergency treatment. Tooth sensitivity triggered by hot or cold but resolving quickly is not an emergency. Fractured, broken, or cracked teeth generally can wait but consult us if the nerve is exposed or it's causing severe pain. Broken fillings, loose or lost crowns, veneers, or bridges should be addressed promptly but are not always immediate emergencies. Always call us to discuss your situation.
When do I need an emergency dental extraction?
Emergency dental extractions are often needed for infected wisdom teeth. Infections can occur under the gum line, leading to swelling and severe pain. Depending on the situation, a simple or surgical extraction may be required. Simple extractions involve loosening and removing the tooth, while surgical extractions may require cutting around the gum line and removing the tooth in pieces, followed by suturing. Bone grafts might be necessary to fill the hole left after extraction, promoting better healing and preparation for future dental work like implants or bridges.
Are there any painless anesthesia options?
Generally speaking, there is no completely painless anesthesia option. However, we strive to make the process as comfortable as possible. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) can help, and we offer it here. The key is technique and addressing your emotional needs. Some patients may feel minimal discomfort, while others might need more support. We work with you to ensure the experience is tolerable. It’s important to communicate your past experiences and current concerns so we can tailor the approach to your needs. Avoiding the dentist due to fear can worsen dental issues and increase costs. If you have more questions, please call us at (925) 272-2698.
Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. provides comprehensive oral healthcare services in Orinda, California, to help our patients keep their smiles healthy and beautiful. Additionally, we are here to provide emergency dentistry services whenever the need arises. If you are facing an unexpected dental issue, you can have peace of mind in knowing that a compassionate team of dental professionals is available nearby to promptly assist you.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
No one is immune to dental emergencies. Even if you take good care of your teeth and follow an optimal oral hygiene routine, you may still face an unexpected dental issue from time to time. For instance, one common problem that often warrants emergency dentistry attention is a toothache. The dental professionals at Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. promptly see patients who are experiencing pain or sensitivity due to:
• Tooth decay
• A tooth cavity
• A chipped, cracked, broken, or knocked-out tooth*
• A loose permanent tooth
• Inflamed gums (gingivitis)
• Gum disease (periodontitis)
• An abscessed tooth
Why Is Emergency Dentistry Important?
In these instances, immediate action is important not only to minimize the pain but also to prevent the condition from worsening. Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. offers a convenient option for addressing such issues quickly. And because patient comfort and satisfaction are among our top priorities, our emergency patients can expect to benefit from the same level of personalized attention and outstanding treatment that they would receive during a prescheduled appointment.
If you are facing a dental emergency, don’t try to power through the pain. Contact Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. right away. We see emergency patients in our office in Orinda, CA, on the same day they call, and we attempt to meet all of their dental needs during their initial emergency visit.
*If you have a knocked-out permanent tooth, we suggest that you rinse your mouth and tooth with warm water. Then, hold the tooth by its crown—avoid touching the root—and gently reposition it in the empty socket in your gum. Place a gauze pad over the tooth and lightly bite down to keep it in place until you visit our office. If you cannot place the tooth in your mouth, preserve it in a cup of milk.