Emergency Dentist
Let’s say you had a tooth that has been sensitive to cold or hot and a little sore to chew on, but it wasn’t too bad and you figured it would get better.
However, today, the pain is too much to handle, and you get a sinking feeling.
You might even panic, but our emergency dentist in Knoxville, TN, is here to help.
Our team at TLC Dental Care in Knoxville, TN, will focus on getting you in today to treat urgent dental situations that require immediate treatment.
We are here to get you the care you need to recover happily and healthily.
Who Needs an Emergency Dentist in Knoxville, TN?
There are numerous situations that require urgent dental care. The mouth is a delicate part of the body, and damage can rapidly worsen or become permanent if not managed and restored.
Some examples of a How Emergency Dentists Save the Day and Your Smile TLC Dental Care Knoxville, TN situation in which you might need to see us include:
- Having uncontrollable bleeding from the tongue or gums
- Experiencing an intense localized pain or swelling in the mouth
- Breaking or fracturing a tooth so that the soft interior is exposed
If you are unsure if you need emergency dentist services, call our dental office and explain the situation. We can provide instructions and details about your next steps.
Common Dental Emergencies
We’ve all been there—one minute, everything’s fine, and the next, you’re dealing with a sudden dental emergency. At TLC Dental Care, we understand how stressful these situations can be, and we’re here to help. Here’s a quick guide to some of the most common dental emergencies and how you can handle them before you visit our Knoxville office.
1. Toothache:
A toothache can range from mild discomfort to sharp, throbbing pain. If the pain persists or worsens, it could be a sign of infection or decay. Rinse your mouth with warm water, floss gently to remove any trapped food, and call us to schedule an emergency appointment.
2. Chipped or Broken Tooth:
Accidents happen, and sometimes teeth can chip or break. Save any pieces you can, rinse your mouth with warm water, and apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling. We’ll need to see you as soon as possible to repair the damage.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth:
If your tooth gets knocked out, time is critical! Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently with water, and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, keep the tooth moist in a container of milk or saliva, and get to our office right away.
4. Lost Filling or Crown:
If a filling or crown falls out, it can leave your tooth exposed and sensitive. You can use dental cement (available at most drugstores) to temporarily protect the area, but it’s essential to visit us for a permanent fix as soon as possible.
5. Abscess:
An abscess is a serious infection that usually appears as a painful, swollen bump on your gums. If left untreated, it can spread and cause more significant health problems. Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution and contact our office immediately.
At TLC Dental Care, we prioritize your dental emergencies and work to see you as quickly as possible. If you’re ever unsure whether something counts as an emergency, give us a call, and we’ll guide you through what to do next!
Do I Need a Ride Home?
Although we are local in Knoxville, TN, some dental emergencies that involve trauma in and around the mouth might require a referral to a specialist. So, if you are visiting TLC Dental Care for emergency dentistry near you for this reason, it is a good idea to bring along an adult with a license who can help get you home, just in case you are referred to a specialist who uses sedation.
Questions & Answers
What should I do if I have a severe toothache?
Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove debris. If the pain persists, call us to schedule an appointment.
Can a knocked-out tooth be saved?
Yes, but you need to act fast! Rinse the tooth gently and try to place it back in the socket. If not possible, keep it in milk or saliva and come see us immediately.
What should I do if my tooth cracks or chips?
Rinse your mouth, save any tooth fragments, and use a cold compress to reduce swelling. Call us for an urgent appointment.
I lost a filling/crown—what now?
Cover the exposed area with dental cement (available at pharmacies) and book an appointment with us as soon as possible.
What if I have an abscess or swelling?
Rinse with warm saltwater and contact us immediately. An abscess can lead to serious health risks if not treated quickly.