What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?

What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies can develop when you least expect them. You may wake up with a sudden toothache, chip a tooth at lunch, or sustain a blow to the mouth during a softball game. Dr. Perno and his patient-centered team at Highrise Dental are pleased to offer emergency dental services you and your family can trust. You can count on us for prompt, compassionate care when you need it most.

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation needing immediate attention to relieve pain, stop bleeding, treat an infection, or save a damaged tooth. If you are unsure whether your concern qualifies as an emergency, here are some common examples:

  • Severe Toothache: Persistent or throbbing tooth pain may indicate infection or decay that needs prompt treatment.
  • Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth: A knocked-out tooth is a time-sensitive emergency, so make sure to call us immediately.
  • Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth:Even a small chip or fracture can provide a pathway for harmful bacteria to enter the inside of a tooth, leading to further complications if left untreated.
  • Abscess or Swelling: An abscessed or infected tooth can lead to complications, including damage to the surrounding teeth, and can even impact your health, so it's important to seek care right away.
  • Lost Filling or Crown: A lost restoration can leave your tooth structure vulnerable to further damage and complications.
  • Bleeding or Trauma to the Mouth: Bleeding from the gums or injury to your soft tissues should never be ignored.

Why Does Prompt Dental Emergency Care Matter?

If you experience a dental emergency, it's important to contact Highrise Dental to schedule an emergency appointment. Neglecting to seek care can result in worsening pain, permanent damage, or even systemic infections. If you are unsure whether you are experiencing a dental emergency, give us a call and we will be happy to offer guidance on next steps.

At Highrise Dental, we offer same-day emergency dental appointments to patients in Phoenix, AZ, and the surrounding areas to provide you with prompt relief and to ensure the best possible outcomes for your smile.

What Should You Do When Faced With a Dental Emergency?

If you or one of your family members experiences a dental emergency, the following are steps you can take:

  • Call Highrise Dental: We are happy to provide you with guidance over the phone and get you the care you need as soon as possible.
  • Manage Pain Safely: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease your discomfort until you are seen by our emergency dentist and team.
  • Rinse with Warm Salt Water: This can help clean the area, soothe irritation, and reduce bacteria if there's swelling or an abscess.
  • Use Cold Compresses to Reduce Swelling: Apply cold compresses to the affected area to help reduce swelling and ease your discomfort.
  • Handle Knocked-Out Teeth with Care: Pick up the tooth gently by its crown and try to place it back in its socket. If that's not possible, carry it in some milk to your appointment.
  • Control Bleeding: If there's bleeding, gently bite down on clean gauze to help control it. If the bleeding is heavy and uncontrollable, head to your nearest ER.
  • Preserve Dental Restorations: If a filling, crown, or other restoration comes out, save it and bring it to your appointment.
IMPORTANT: If you are dealing with a life-threatening emergency, do not wait. Please call 911 immediately or head to the nearest ER!

Emergency Dentistry Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Highrise Dental is proud to be a trusted provider of emergency dental care to patients in Phoenix, AZ, and the surrounding communities. From cutting-edge technology to time-tested techniques and exceptional, compassionate care, you can count on us for the best possible patient experience. If you experience a dental emergency, call Highrise Dental at 602-230-1161 to receive the quality help you deserve!

By Dr. Dana Perno, DDS | 12-September-2025