Emergency Dental Care

Emergency dental care provides immediate treatment for urgent dental problems that can’t wait for a regular appointment. This includes severe tooth pain, knocked-out teeth, broken teeth from accidents, abscesses, or any dental injury causing significant discomfort. Dr. Fenton understands that dental emergencies happen at the worst times and works to see emergency patients quickly to relieve pain and prevent further damage.

Severe tooth pain, knocked-out teeth, broken teeth, and facial swelling are all dental emergencies that need immediate attention. Other emergencies include lost fillings or crowns causing pain, cuts to your lips or tongue, and objects stuck between teeth that won’t come out. If you’re experiencing significant pain or bleeding, or if trauma has damaged your teeth, don’t wait – call us right away.

Time is critical – call us immediately and try to get here within an hour for the best chance of saving the tooth. Handle the tooth by the crown (white part), not the root. If it’s dirty, rinse gently with water but don’t scrub it. Try to put it back in the socket if possible, or keep it in milk or saliva. Don’t let it dry out. The sooner we can treat it, the better chance we have of successfully re-implanting it.

We make every effort to see emergency patients the same day during our regular business hours. Our front office team understands the urgency of dental pain and will work to fit you into Dr. Fenton’s schedule as quickly as possible. When you call with an emergency, explain your symptoms clearly so we can prioritize your appointment and provide guidance on managing your pain until you arrive.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen work well for dental pain because they reduce inflammation. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time. Avoid putting aspirin directly on the tooth or gums as this can burn the tissue. Rinse gently with warm salt water. Don’t apply heat or put anything hot on the painful area.

Emergency visit fees typically range from $150-$300, depending on the complexity of your situation. Additional treatment costs vary based on what’s needed – simple pain relief is less expensive than complex procedures. Many dental insurance plans cover emergency care, often at the same rate as regular visits. We’ll discuss all costs upfront and work with you to manage both your pain and your budget.

Most dental insurance plans cover emergency dental visits and treatments at the same rate as regular dental care. Emergency exams are typically covered at 100%, while treatments are covered based on your plan’s structure. If your emergency is due to an accident, your medical insurance might provide coverage instead. We’ll help verify your benefits and handle the insurance paperwork so you can focus on feeling better.