Emergency Dentistry
in Richmond, VA

What is considered a dental emergency?

Common dental emergencies include, but are not limited to:

• Severe toothaches or persistent dental pain
• Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
• Knocked-out teeth
• Lost fillings, crowns, or dental restorations
• Swollen gums or facial swelling
• Dental abscesses or infections
• Bleeding that won’t stop after an injury
• Injuries to the lips, gums, cheeks, or tongue

What to Do During a Dental Emergency

Taking the right steps before you arrive at our office can improve the outcome of your treatment:

• For a knocked-out tooth, gently rinse it and place it back in the socket if possible. Otherwise, store it in milk or saliva. Then, get to our office as quickly as possible.
• For a broken tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and save any broken pieces.
• For swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek.
• For severe pain, use over-the-counter pain medication as directed until you can be seen.

Emergency Room vs. Emergency Dentist

When a dental-related emergency occurs, it can sometimes be tricky to determine the next best steps. Generally, if an issue is tooth, gum, or mouth-related, you will want to visit your Richmond emergency dentist for prompt treatment, as most general medical facilities do not have the tools or expertise required to assist. However, if you or a loved one have sustained additional, time-sensitive injuries, going to the ER first may be the right choice. If you are still unsure, you are always welcome to call us for personalized assistance.