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Clermont Family Dentistry is excited to announce that our office is now open for all treatments and procedures, and that we’re taking additional special measures to ensure the health and safety of our patients and staff.
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Clermont Family Dentistry is excited to announce that our office is now open for all treatments and procedures, and that we’re taking additional special measures to ensure the health and safety of our patients and staff.
Learn moreWhen something goes wrong with a tooth, it never seems to check your calendar first. A cracked molar during lunch, a throbbing tooth that keeps you up at night, a soccer ball to the face—each one spikes the same question: “Is this an emergency?” Here’s a clear, calm guide to emergency dentistry so you know what to do in the moment and how to protect your smile afterward.
Think “pain, bleeding, swelling, or broken parts.” Severe toothache that won’t let you sleep, swelling in the face or gums, a knocked-out or broken tooth, a lost filling or crown that’s causing pain, and any injury that makes it hard to bite or close your mouth—those deserve quick attention. If you have bleeding that won’t stop, fever with facial swelling, or trouble breathing or swallowing, seek urgent medical care first, then follow up with your dentist.
On the other hand, a small chip with no pain, a slightly loose filling that’s not sensitive, or a mild toothache that improves with over-the-counter relief can often wait a short time for a regular visit. When in doubt, call your dentist and describe your symptoms; a few smart questions can triage the situation quickly.
Knocked-out tooth (adult). Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root. If it’s dirty, gently rinse with water—no scrubbing. Try to place it back in the socket and bite softly on gauze. If that’s not possible, keep it moist in milk or saline and head to the dentist as soon as possible.
Broken or cracked tooth. Rinse with warm water, save any large pieces, and cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum to protect your cheek and tongue. Avoid biting on that side.
Severe toothache. Rinse with warm saltwater, floss gently to clear trapped food, and use an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed. Skip aspirin against the gums; it can burn tissue.
Lost filling or crown. Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can hold a crown in place for a short period. Keep the area clean and avoid sticky or hard foods.
Bleeding after an injury. Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze for 10–15 minutes. If bleeding persists or you feel dizzy or faint, seek medical attention.
A dull ache can signal an inflamed nerve; a small pimple on the gum may indicate an abscess. These issues rarely improve on their own. Treating them early often means a simpler solution—like a small filling or a root canal that saves the tooth—instead of an extraction later. Your body is good at sending signals; it’s wise to listen.
Toothaches and infections. Your dentist will test the tooth, relieve pressure, and may prescribe medication. Root canal therapy can clean the inflamed nerve space and stop the pain while saving the tooth. In some cases, a crown is recommended to protect the tooth afterward.
Chips and fractures. Small chips often respond well to bonding or a filling. Larger fractures may need a crown. If the crack extends into the root, extraction could be the safest option, followed by a dental implant or bridge.
Knocked-out teeth. Replantation is time-sensitive. The sooner the tooth is placed back in the socket and stabilized, the better the chances it can re-integrate. If it can’t be saved, an implant, bridge, or partial denture can fill the space.
Soft-tissue injuries. Cuts to the lips, cheeks, or tongue are cleaned and sutured if necessary. Your dentist will also check your teeth for damage from the same impact.
Professional dental organizations consistently note that timely care limits complications. Addressing infection reduces the risk of spread, swelling, and tooth loss. Using a mouthguard lowers the rate of dental trauma in sports. And evidence supports that root canal therapy relieves pain while preserving the natural tooth—often the best long-term outcome for chewing and jaw stability. In short, fast action with the right treatment protects your comfort and your bite.
Is a cracked tooth always an emergency? If there’s pain, temperature sensitivity, or a chunk is missing, call quickly. A painless hairline line can often wait for an evaluation—just avoid chewing hard items on that tooth.
Should I go to the ER or the dentist? Go to the ER first if you have uncontrolled bleeding, severe facial swelling with fever, or breathing/swallowing troubles. For most toothaches, broken teeth, or lost restorations, a dentist is the right first stop.
Will I need antibiotics? Sometimes, but not always. They help with spreading infections, fever, or swelling. They don’t fix the underlying cause, so a dental procedure is still needed.
What if the pain stops suddenly? That can mean the nerve has died. Relief might feel good, but the infection can continue—call for an exam.
Emergencies feel random, yet patterns hide underneath: a tooth with an old, large filling finally fractures; a clenching habit catches up; a small cavity turns big. After the urgent part is handled, ask about prevention—maybe a stronger crown material, a guard for nighttime, or replacing another cracked filling before it fails. Small, smart moves now can save you time and discomfort later.
If you’re dealing with a dental crisis—or you just want a plan so you’re ready when life throws a curveball—reach out to Clermont Family Dentistry in Clermont, FL at (352) 242-1763 to Book an Appointment.
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