Emergency Dentist in Poway, CA

When to call about a dental emergency

A dental emergency is any situation where you have significant pain, bleeding, swelling, or damage to a tooth that needs prompt attention. If you are unsure whether your situation is urgent, it is best to call our office and describe what is happening. Our team can help you decide how quickly you need to be seen and what to do in the meantime.

Some situations are true medical emergencies rather than dental ones. If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or a significant facial injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For urgent dental problems, Gentle Dentistry of Poway makes every effort to see patients as promptly as possible.

Common dental emergencies

Severe toothache

Persistent or severe tooth pain can signal decay, infection, a cracked tooth, or other problems that need evaluation. Rinsing gently with warm water and using an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed may help temporarily, but pain that lasts, worsens, or comes with swelling should be examined promptly.

Knocked-out or displaced tooth

A tooth that has been knocked out is time sensitive. Handle it by the crown, not the root, gently rinse it if it is dirty, and if possible place it back in the socket or keep it in milk. Call us right away, because acting quickly gives the best chance of saving the tooth.

Broken, chipped, or cracked tooth

Save any pieces if you can, rinse your mouth with warm water, and use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling. Depending on the extent of the damage, treatment may range from smoothing and bonding to a crown or, in some cases, root canal therapy or extraction.

Lost filling or crown

A lost filling or crown often is not as urgent as severe pain, but the exposed tooth can be sensitive and vulnerable. Keep the crown if you have it and call to arrange care so the tooth can be protected and repaired.

Swelling or dental abscess

Swelling of the gums or face can indicate an infection that needs prompt treatment. Do not ignore facial swelling, and call the office right away, because infections can spread and become more serious if left untreated.

• Root Canals and Endodontics
• Tooth Extraction
• Oral Surgery
• Sedation Dentistry

What to do until you are seen

1. Call our office and describe your symptoms so we can advise you.
2. For pain, rinse gently with warm water and take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed.
3. For a knocked-out tooth, handle it by the crown, keep it moist, and seek care immediately.
4. For swelling or injury, apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek.
5. Save any broken pieces, fillings, or crowns to bring with you.
6. Avoid chewing on the affected side until you have been examined.

What affects the cost of emergency care

The cost of emergency dental care depends on what is causing the problem and what treatment is needed to resolve it. An urgent visit may involve an examination and X-rays first, followed by treatment that could range from a simple repair to a root canal, crown, or extraction. Because we cannot know the full picture until you are examined, we explain the recommended treatment and provide a personalized estimate before proceeding, and we will review your insurance benefits and any financing options.

Why patients choose Gentle Dentistry of Poway

• Urgent dental problems seen as promptly as possible
• Care from Dr. Shabnam Pedram and Dr. Maggie Abadan
• Clear guidance over the phone on what to do right away
• Sedation options available for anxious patients
• A calm, reassuring approach during stressful situations
• Convenient care for patients in Poway, Rancho Bernardo, and Scripps Ranch

Call us right away

If you are in pain or have injured a tooth, do not wait to see whether it improves on its own. Contact Gentle Dentistry of Poway so our team can advise you and arrange to see you as promptly as possible.

Information on this website is educational and does not replace an examination, diagnosis, or personalized treatment plan from a licensed dentist. Treatment recommendations, timing, costs, and results vary by patient.