Dental emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time. Maybe it’s a Saturday morning, the middle of a busy workday, or right before your child’s big school event. Your first instinct might be to panic, but here’s the good news: knowing a few simple steps ahead of time can make all the difference during a dental emergency.
At Rebol Family Dentistry on McDowell Street, we’ve helped countless Asheville families navigate dental emergencies with confidence and compassion. Whether you’re a long-time patient or new to our practice, we want you to feel prepared, not scared, if an urgent situation comes up.
First Things First: Stay Calm and Call Us
The most important step in any dental emergency is to stay calm and call our office right away. We know that dental problems don’t always happen during regular business hours, but we’re here to help. When you call, our team will listen carefully to what happened, offer guidance on what to do next, and arrange to see you as soon as possible.
If the emergency happens after hours, our voicemail will provide instructions on how to reach us. Don’t hesitate to call; we understand that dental pain or injury is stressful, and we want to help you get relief quickly.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a permanent tooth gets knocked out, time is critical. Gently pick up the tooth by the crown (the chewing surface). Avoid touching the root. Rinse it gently with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub or remove any attached tissue fragments.
If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket and hold it in place with gentle pressure. If that’s not an option, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a cup of milk or saline solution. Get to our office immediately. With prompt care, there’s a small chance to save the tooth.
Severe Toothache
A toothache can range from a dull ache to throbbing, unrelenting pain. Start by gently flossing around the area to remove any trapped food. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to reduce inflammation. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum or tooth as this can burn the tissue. Instead, take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed and call our office. A toothache often signals an underlying issue like decay or infection that needs professional attention.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
If you chip or break a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water. Apply a cold compress to your face near the area to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken piece, place it in a small container of milk or water and bring it with you. Even if the chip seems small, it’s important to have Dr. Rebol evaluate it to prevent further damage or sensitivity.
Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown falls out, it can leave your tooth feeling sensitive or exposed. For a lost crown, you can sometimes slip it back into place using a small amount of toothpaste or over-the-counter dental cement as a temporary fix. Avoid chewing on that side until we can see you and properly restore the tooth.
Something Stuck Between Teeth
If food or an object becomes lodged between teeth, try gently removing it with dental floss. Never use a sharp object like a pin or toothpick to poke at the area, as this can injure your gums or scratch the tooth enamel. If flossing doesn’t work, give us a call. We have the right tools to remove it safely.
We’re Here for You When You Need Us Most
At Rebol Family Dentistry, we understand that emergencies don’t schedule appointments. That’s why Dr. Rebol and our team are committed to being there for our patients when unexpected dental problems arise. We’ll always work hard to make room in our schedule to see you promptly, listen to your concerns, and provide gentle, effective care.
Think of us as your dental home, not just for routine cleanings and smile makeovers, but for the moments when you need us most. If a dental emergency happens, take a breath, follow these steps, and give us a call.
New patients can reach us at 828-247-7222. Current patients, call 828-253-5878. You can also schedule an appointment online. We’re here to help you smile with confidence, even when life throws you a curveball.