There are many reasons that patients need an emergency dentist. We find that a dental emergency can strike at any time. Our team at Shepherd Dental P.C. will try to accommodate any last minute appointment requests so that the patient does not have to continue struggling with oral pain. If you have a toothache or a major dental emergency, call (210) 820-0400 right away.
Do I need emergency dentistry? Call us if…
- Toothache – Did you brush, rinse and floss and it still hurts.
- Tooth Knocked Out
- Gum/Tongue/Cheek Injuries – If bleeding will not stop.
- Broken/Loose Braces – Call your orthodontist immediately.
- Chipped/Broken Teeth – If the chip is significant or your tooth is cracked or your tooth is in pieces.
- Lost Filling/Crown
- Tooth Loose
- Abscess
Reasons for Needing an Emergency Dental Visit
The American Dental Association reported that the number one cause of adult tooth damage every year is playing sports. This spans all types of athletics and creates the need for emergency appointments throughout San Antonio TX. Even a backyard game of basketball can lead to someone damaging a tooth or someone knocking a player's tooth out. The same holds true for kids playing sports as well. While there are ways to protect yourself like wearing a mouth guard, a dental emergency is still possible. When an emergency strikes call 210-820-0400.
Car accidents are another leading cause of tooth injury. While the enamel on your teeth is strong, it may not be strong enough to prevent your tooth from breaking when colliding with the steering wheel. With millions of accidents a year, teeth are a common victim. We recommend that patients of Shepherd Dental P.C. get examined at a local emergency room after being in a car accident; just to make sure that they have not sustained any physical injuries. Afterward, call us for a dentist appointment. The emergency room does not treat tooth damage, so you will need to see both types of medical providers.
San Antonio, Texas Emergency Dentist
Severe and sudden toothaches are another reason people in Texas end up needing an emergency dentist. We can examine teeth and determine what is causing the pain. It may be a little cavity that grew into a big one and now requires a root canal. Another possibility is gum disease, which can cause the gums to recede, exposing the tooth and roots. Both can lead to intense pain and require emergency treatment. We do not want patients of Shepherd Dental P.C. to experience oral pain and will do our best to treat you right away so that you can remain comfortable.
If a tooth infection is left untreated for a long period of time, it can lead to a dental abscess. This is extremely painful. An abscess is a major tooth infection that can settle into your jawbone and the floor of your mouth. If it does, oral surgery may be necessary in order to remove the infection. We can let you know if we see an abscess during your dental exam with Dr. Jo Ann Ybarra Shepherd.
How can I relieve dental pain while waiting for an emergency dental appointment?
We can help patients to stay comfortable and live a life that is pain-free. If you visit Shepherd Dental P.C. experiencing pain, we will identify what is creating the issue and the treatment options available for dealing with it. Often, we will also prescribe medication to help with the pain. This can prevent you from feeling discomfort while your tooth is being treated and at home. You may also want to apply a cold compress or ice pack to the area in order to reduce or prevent swelling.
Treatment Options
- When a tooth has fallen out…
If your tooth has been knocked out, try to find it. Once located, rinse the tooth under warm water without scrubbing it. Next, place it in a cup of milk and bring it with you to your dental appointment. We will try to save the tooth, if possible. If not, we will discuss options for replacing the tooth. This may include dentures, a dental bridge or dental implants.
When a tooth is broken…
It is common for people to damage a tooth while playing sports or getting into a car accident. It is likely that the tooth will become cracked or chipped. As long as the tooth structure remains in place, we can typically correct it with various dental treatment options. There are multiple ways that we can restore a patient's teeth. Some of which include dental veneers and a dental crown. Both are excellent options and can restore your tooth to full functionality while keeping it natural looking. As an emergency dental facility, we can provide you with information on what your options are and the best way to restore your tooth while achieving the goals that you have for your smile. To schedule an appointment, call (210) 820-0400.
- When a tooth is infected…
As an emergency dentist, we will assess the situation and inform you of where the infection is and the best way to quickly treat it. Our job is to keep you comfortable, healthy and pain-free. Patients trust us to remove infections and keep their teeth and gums in excellent oral health. Whether fixing a general cavity or treating a dental abscess, we make it possible for a tooth to be free from infection and pain. We can resolve the issue in a way that keeps patients comfortable during any necessary procedures.
How can an emergency dentist help me?
At Shepherd Dental P.C. we strive to keep our patients comfortable and free from injury or pain. As such, we are cognizant of the fact that most dental emergencies are unplanned. If your tooth has been damaged or you are in pain, call 210-820-0400 right away so that we can schedule your appointment and treat the issue quickly. Our friendly staff will do our best to accommodate your schedule and ensure that you can get back to a life that is free from oral pain. While many dentists, require you to schedule appointments far in advance – our staff will work with you in each situation to get you the necessary treatment right away. You can also help to avoid dental emergencies by receiving teeth cleanings twice a year and maintaining a healthy diet year-round.
There is a much higher rate of emergency dental visits in families with annual incomes less than $35k. Don't let the cost of care get in the way of your oral health, call us for financing options.
Emergency Dentist FAQ
Q. What should I do if my child's permanent tooth is knocked out?
A. Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. (Do not scrub or clean it with soap — use only water!) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket immediately and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can't put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with cold milk, saliva or water. Get to the Emergency Dentist immediately. The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.
Q. What should I do if my child's baby tooth is knocked out?
A. Contact your emergency dental office as soon as possible. The baby tooth should not be replanted because of the potential for subsequent damage to the developing permanent tooth.
Q. What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?
A. Contact your Dentist immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling if the lip also was injured. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, place it in cold milk or water and bring it with you to the dental office.
Q. What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?
A. You need immediate medical attention. Keep in mind that an emergency medical team might be able to reach you faster than you can get to the hospital. A severe head injury can be life-threatening.
Q. What if my child has a toothache?
A. Call our office immediately. Over-the-counter children's pain medication, dosed according to your child's weight and age, might ease the symptoms. You may apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth to the face in the area of the pain, but do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area.
