Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, or a swollen jaw, knowing what qualifies as an emergency can help you take the right steps before seeing a dentist.
At Laguna Heights Dental in Laguna Niguel, CA, Dr. Nazita Gaff and our expert team provide same-day emergency dental care to get you out of pain and back to your life.
Common Types of Dental Emergencies
Some dental issues can wait a day or two, while others require immediate attention to prevent infection, further damage, or permanent tooth loss. Here’s a breakdown of the most common dental emergencies and what to do if they happen to you.
1. Severe Tooth Pain (Toothache That Won’t Go Away)
What it means:
A constant, throbbing toothache could indicate:
✔ A deep cavity or severe decay
✔ An infection inside the tooth (root canal may be needed)
✔ An abscess (a pocket of pus caused by infection)
What to do:
- Rinse with warm salt water to clean the area.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication (avoid aspirin if there’s bleeding).
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
Don’t ignore tooth pain! If an infection spreads, it could lead to serious complications.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth (Dental Avulsion)
What it means:
A knocked-out tooth is a true dental emergency—the sooner you act, the better the chances of saving it.
What to do:
- Find the tooth and handle it by the crown (top), not the root.
- Gently rinse the tooth with water (don’t scrub or remove any tissue).
- If possible, put the tooth back in the socket and hold it in place.
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, store the tooth in a cup of milk or between your cheek and gums.
- Get to the dentist within 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
3. Chipped, Broken, or Cracked Tooth
What it means:
A tooth can break from biting down on something hard, trauma, or untreated decay. If left untreated, the damage can worsen, leading to pain and infection.
What to do:
- Save any broken pieces and bring them with you.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Avoid chewing on the broken tooth until it’s treated.
A broken tooth can expose nerves and lead to severe pain—don’t wait to get it checked!
4. Lost Filling or Crown
What it means:
Losing a filling or crown exposes the vulnerable part of your tooth, making it sensitive to temperature and pressure.
What to do:
- If you still have the crown, try placing it back on using toothpaste or dental cement.
- Avoid chewing on that side until you see the dentist.
5. Abscess or Swollen Gums (Infection in the Mouth)
What it means:
An abscess is a serious infection that can form near the root of a tooth or in the gums. If left untreated, it can spread to other parts of your body.
Signs of a dental abscess:
✔ Severe tooth pain that radiates to the ear or jaw
✔ Swelling in your face or gums
✔ A pus-filled bump on the gums
✔ Bad taste or bad breath
✔ Fever or difficulty swallowing
What to do:
- Rinse with warm salt water to help drain the infection.
- Take pain relievers to reduce discomfort.
- Do NOT pop the abscess!
If you have swelling that makes it hard to breathe or swallow, go to the ER immediately.
6. Bleeding Gums That Won’t Stop
What it means:
If your gums bleed excessively after an injury or randomly bleed for no reason, it could be a sign of:
✔ Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis)
✔ Injury from flossing too hard or biting your cheek
✔ A blood clotting disorder
What to do:
- Apply gentle pressure with gauze for 10–15 minutes.
- Rinse gently with warm salt water.
- Avoid aspirin, which can thin the blood.
How Much Does Emergency Dental Care Cost?
The cost depends on what treatment is needed, but here’s a general estimate:
- Emergency Exam & X-Ray – $50–$150
- Tooth Extraction – $150–$500
- Root Canal Treatment – $800–$1,500
- Dental Crown Replacement – $1,000–$1,500
Need Help with Costs? We Offer:
✔ Insurance Assistance – We’ll check your coverage and maximize your benefits.
✔ Payment Plans & Financing – CareCredit & LendingClub available with 0% interest options.
✔ In-House Membership Plan – Discounts for uninsured patients.
Why Choose Dr. Nazita Gaff at Laguna Heights Dental?
🔹 Advanced 3D Technology – Ensures precise, efficient implant placement.
🔹 Sedation Dentistry Options – Stay comfortable and relaxed during the procedure.
🔹 Personalized Treatment Plans – Every smile is unique—we tailor your implants to match your face, bite, and natural teeth.
🔹 Expertise in Same Day Implants – Dr. Gaff has extensive training in immediate load implants for predictable, lasting results.
At Laguna Heights Dental in Laguna Niguel, CA, we prioritize precision, aesthetics, and patient comfort, helping you achieve a flawless smile in just hours.
