Emergency Dentist Southampton PA: Signs You Should Call

If you need an emergency dentist Southampton PA, call Smile Maker PA when tooth pain, swelling, a broken tooth or dental trauma needs prompt guidance.

Tooth pain, swelling, a broken tooth or a dental injury can be stressful because it is not always clear what needs urgent care. Some dental problems can wait for the next available appointment, while others should be evaluated as soon as possible.

Smile Maker PA provides guidance for patients looking for an emergency dentist in Southampton, PA. If you are unsure what to do, call (215) 969-2015 so the team can learn about your symptoms and explain the appropriate next step.

Quick Answer

A dental emergency may include severe tooth pain, swelling, a broken or knocked-out tooth, dental trauma, uncontrolled oral bleeding, signs of infection or a loose permanent tooth. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, rapidly spreading swelling, severe facial trauma or uncontrolled bleeding, seek medical emergency care immediately.

Symptoms That May Need Urgent Dental Care

Call a dentist promptly if you have:

• Severe or persistent tooth pain
• Swelling in the gums, jaw or face
• A broken, cracked or knocked-out tooth
• A loose or displaced permanent tooth
• Bleeding that does not stop
• A lost filling or crown with pain or sharp edges
• Signs of infection such as swelling, drainage, fever or a bad taste
• Pain after a recent dental procedure
• Trauma from a fall, sports injury or accident

These symptoms do not always mean the same treatment is needed. The dentist must evaluate the tooth, gums, bite and surrounding area to identify the cause.

When to Seek Medical Emergency Care

Some symptoms are better handled first by an emergency department. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for:

• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Severe facial trauma
• Rapidly spreading swelling
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Loss of consciousness

After the immediate medical issue is addressed, dental follow-up may still be needed.

What to Do Before You See the Dentist

Severe Tooth Pain

Call the office and describe the location, duration and severity of the pain. Avoid placing aspirin or medication directly on the gums or tooth. Use medication only according to its label and your healthcare professional’s guidance.

Swelling

Swelling can be a sign of infection or another urgent problem. Call the dentist promptly. If swelling affects breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical care.

Broken Tooth

Save any broken pieces if possible and avoid chewing on that side. A broken tooth may need bonding, a crown, root canal treatment, extraction or another treatment depending on the damage.

Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth

Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. If possible, keep it moist and seek urgent care. Time matters with knocked-out teeth, so call immediately.

Lost Filling or Crown

If the tooth is sensitive or has sharp edges, call the office for guidance. Avoid chewing sticky or hard foods on that side until the tooth is evaluated.

Could Tooth Extraction Be Needed?

Not every dental emergency leads to extraction. A dentist may be able to restore or treat the tooth. However, tooth extractions in Southampton may be recommended if a tooth is severely damaged, infected, fractured below the gumline or cannot be predictably restored.

If a tooth must be removed, the dentist can also discuss replacement options, including bridges, dentures or dental implants in Southampton, PA.

Call Smile Maker PA

For urgent dental concerns in Southampton, PA, call (215) 969-2015 or contact the office. You can also request an appointment online.

FAQs About Emergency Dentist Southampton PA