Dental Emergencies in Florida

Whether it happens to you or a loved one, a dental emergency is very stressful for everyone involved. Whether it involves a knocked-out tooth, a chipped or cracked tooth, an abscess, or sudden pain or pressure, all you want is for the pain and discomfort to disappear. However, many people don't have a list of emergency contact numbers, so they don't know whom to contact during an emergency, which increases their stress. We recommend that you compile an emergency list for your future peace of mind. If you're experiencing a dental emergency, call our Florida office first and we can help you.

If you're unsure whether your situation would be considered an emergency, then call us and we'll advise you. Remember, it's always better to treat a situation as though it was an emergency when it isn't than to treat a true emergency as a routine situation. Often, a few minutes can make a substantial difference in the prognosis of a situation, so don't hesitate to reach out to professionals during an emergency.

Do I Have an Emergency?

An emergency is defined as any situation that can worsen or cause substantial bodily harm if left untreated. Dental emergencies can fit into both categories depending on the issue. For example, sudden pressure or severe bleeding that can't be stopped should both be treated as emergencies. A minor chip on a tooth or a mild toothache probably aren't emergencies although they shouldn't be ignored. If you're uncertain, then call our Florida office and we'll advise you if you should call 911.

Calling 911

If you're unsure about calling 911, then the following may help you decide. Call emergency services if you have:

1. Difficulty breathing
2. Severe bleeding that doesn't stop
3. Severe head trauma
4. Lost consciousness

 If you're unsure whether to call 911, err on the side of caution because prompt treatment will provide the best prognosis.

Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency in Florida

If you're having a dental emergency, the following guidelines can help get you through the treatment procedure and alleviate some of your stress.

1. Knocked-out tooth: If you have knocked out a tooth, rinse it well with warm water and try to replace it in the socket. Many times, this will save the tooth, and it will reattach to the gum. If that's unsuccessful, then place the tooth in a glass of milk and call our Florida office at once. We usually see emergency patients the same day they call, and prompt treatment of a knocked-out tooth often saves the tooth.
2. Severe toothache: If you have a severe toothache, rinse your mouth well and floss to remove any food particles. If that is unsuccessful or the pain worsens, then call our Florida office for an appointment.
3. Broken or chipped tooth: If you have broken or chipped a tooth, apply a cold compress to the area to alleviate any swelling, and then call our Florida office.
4. Abscessed tooth: If you have let an infected tooth turn into an abscessed tooth, then call our Florida office immediately. Signs of an abscess may include fever, chills, vomiting, or nausea. Do not ignore an abscess because it can be a life-threatening situation. The bacteria from the abscess will travel throughout your body and adversely impact your major organs, so don't ignore an abscess.
5. Severe bleeding: If you have uncontrolled bleeding or severe bleeding, then call our Florida office immediately.

 Remember, it's always best to treat a dental problem as though it's an emergency, so call our Florida office and we'll advise you of the best treatment regimen for your issue.

Need an Emergency Appointment?

We offer same-day appointments for all emergencies because we know they need immediate treatment. We also know that although all dental issues are traumatic, not all are emergencies. For instance, a minor chip may be annoying but can wait until the following day. An abscessed tooth or a knocked-out tooth, however, are true emergencies and should receive immediate treatment in order to have the best outcome. When you call our Florida office, we'll advise you of the best route for your issue, so don't delay calling us. If it's after hours or on a weekend or holiday, then call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.