What to Do When a Dental Emergency Strikes

Dental emergencies never seem to happen at a convenient time. Whether it’s sudden tooth pain, a broken crown, or an accident involving your child’s teeth, knowing how to react can make all the difference. Emergency dental care is about more than just immediate relief—it’s about preventing long-term complications and preserving your oral health.

At Aspire Smiles, we’re here when you need us most. Our experienced team is equipped to handle urgent dental issues quickly, compassionately, and with expert care.

What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

Not every dental issue requires same-day attention, but there are some situations where you shouldn’t wait to seek help. Here are some of the most common dental emergencies:

1. Severe Toothache

A sharp, throbbing, or constant pain in a tooth could be a sign of infection, decay, or an abscess. Waiting too long could allow the problem to worsen, so don’t ignore it.

2. Broken or Knocked-Out Tooth

Dental trauma from sports or accidents can lead to a chipped, cracked, or fully dislodged tooth. Acting quickly may increase the chance of saving the tooth.

3. Lost Filling or Crown

If a restoration falls out, the exposed tooth is vulnerable to damage and sensitivity. It’s important to cover it and get professional care as soon as possible.

4. Swelling or Infection

Facial swelling, gum abscesses, or signs of infection should never be ignored. Left untreated, they can spread and become serious health concerns.

5. Bleeding That Won’t Stop

Persistent oral bleeding after an injury or procedure may require immediate intervention to avoid further complications.

How Aspire Smiles Handles Emergencies

We believe no one should have to wait in pain or panic. At Aspire Smiles, we prioritize emergency patients and reserve daily time slots to accommodate urgent care needs. Here’s what you can expect:

Prompt Evaluation

Once you arrive or call in, our team will ask about your symptoms and situation to assess the urgency. We aim to see emergency patients as quickly as possible.

Thorough Diagnosis

Digital X-rays and a gentle but thorough exam help us pinpoint the cause of the issue—whether it’s infection, trauma, or damage—and develop a plan for immediate relief.

Same-Day Relief

Our team is trained to provide same-day solutions whenever possible, whether that’s draining an abscess, securing a loose crown, or starting a root canal.

What to Do Before You Arrive

While you wait to be seen, here are a few ways to care for a dental emergency at home:

• Toothache: Rinse with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain medication, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.

• Knocked-out tooth: Hold the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it, and place it in milk or your mouth (if safe) until you reach the dentist.

• Broken tooth: Save any pieces if possible and cover the area with dental wax or gauze.

• Lost crown or filling: Use dental cement or sugar-free gum to temporarily cover the area and prevent sensitivity.

Your Emergency Dental Partner

It’s natural to feel stressed in a dental emergency—but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether it’s the middle of the day or you’ve just finished dinner, knowing who to call is key. If you're searching for a dentist in Sherwood Park that offers reliable, compassionate emergency care, Aspire Smiles is ready to step in when you need us most.

Call Now, Smile Sooner
A dental emergency can be overwhelming, but fast action and the right care can protect your smile and your peace of mind. Contact Aspire Smiles if you're dealing with an urgent issue—we’re here to help, no matter what.