Dental emergencies can happen at any time—a sudden toothache, a broken crown, or a knocked-out tooth can quickly throw your day off course. Knowing what to expect during an emergency dental visit can help you feel calmer and more prepared when you need care fast. Here’s a general overview of what happens when you visit an emergency dentist and how they can help restore your comfort and oral health.
Assessing Your Situation
When you first arrive for your emergency appointment, the dental team will quickly evaluate your symptoms and determine the severity of your condition. You’ll be asked to describe what happened, when the pain started, and how severe it feels. The dentist will perform an exam to pinpoint the source of the issue—whether it’s an abscess, fractured tooth, lost filling, or another urgent concern. In some cases, X-rays will be taken to help identify damage beneath the surface or to assess the extent of an infection.
This initial assessment allows your dentist to create a plan to stabilize the problem and relieve your pain as soon as possible.
Pain Relief and Stabilization
Once the cause of your discomfort has been identified, the next priority is to manage pain and prevent further damage. Depending on your condition, your dentist might administer local anesthesia or prescribe pain medication to provide immediate relief. For broken or knocked-out teeth, the dentist may use bonding materials or temporary restorations to stabilize the area until a permanent fix can be completed.
If you have a severe infection or abscess, you may be prescribed antibiotics to control the infection before further treatment is performed. Quick pain management and stabilization are key goals during this stage of your emergency visit.
Common Emergency Treatments
Every dental emergency is unique, but there are several treatments your dentist may perform depending on your needs. If a tooth is damaged beyond repair, your provider may recommend an emergency tooth extraction to prevent infection or relieve severe pain. In cases of chipped or cracked teeth, dental bonding or crowns can restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
For toothaches caused by decay or infection, a root canal may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and save the tooth. Other emergencies, such as lost fillings, broken restorations, or soft tissue injuries, can often be repaired or treated the same day. Your dentist will walk you through every step of the process so you know exactly what to expect.
Follow-Up Care and Prevention
After your immediate treatment, your dentist will discuss any necessary follow-up appointments to complete your care. They may schedule additional visits for permanent restorations or to monitor healing. You’ll also receive personalized instructions for at-home care to promote recovery and prevent further complications.
To reduce your risk of future emergencies, your dentist might recommend wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play contact sports, maintaining regular dental checkups, and avoiding hard foods that could chip or crack your teeth.
Feeling Confident in Your Care
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but knowing what to expect can make the experience much less intimidating. With prompt attention and professional care, your smile can be restored quickly and comfortably.
About the Practice
At SmileWorks of Mt. Pleasant, patients can expect exceptional, compassionate dental care, even when emergencies strike. Led by our advanced dental team, we offer comprehensive treatments, including emergency tooth extractions, restorative dentistry, and preventive care to keep your smile healthy year-round.
Call us at (843) 351-6422 or request an appointment online.