In a dental emergency, please call our office at 757.982.8467. Our dentists will help schedule an appointment for you as soon as possible, if necessary, to address your particular emergency. To prevent further damage or complications, it is important to receive dental care after a dental injury or trauma.
Dr. J. Ryland Gwaltney, Dr. Steve Gwaltney, and Dr. Whitney Gwaltney are dedicated to helping patients receive the general dentistry services they need when an unexpected emergency occurs, or they are experiencing sudden tooth pain or discomfort.
Emergency Dental Services
We offer a variety of services for patients with damaged, infected, or increasingly sensitive teeth:
- Dental implants and implant restorations
- Tooth extractions
- Dental crown repair or replacement
- Gum or tooth infection treatment
- Relief for tooth pain and tooth sensitivity
- Repairs for damaged teeth
Our team works one-on-one with patients to determine the cause of their symptoms and create comprehensive treatment plans to restore oral health and wellness.
Emergency Dental FAQs
Many patients have frequently asked questions about what to do in the event of a dental emergency, such as:
What do I do if my tooth is knocked out?
If you have just lost a tooth, you may try to locate it for transport to our office. Always hold the tooth by the crown and avoid touching the root. You may place the tooth in a cup of milk or saliva. When preserved in this way, we may be able to reattach the tooth. Otherwise, we provide durable dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth.
Dental implants help support the dental structure and maintain a balanced bite.
What if I chip or break my tooth?
If you have a broken tooth, gently rinse it with water. Our dentists can repair your tooth with dental bonding or a porcelain veneer. Both of these treatments are made of resin that protects teeth from further damage and blends in with natural teeth.
How can I treat a toothache?
If you are experiencing severe tooth pain, contact our office right away. Sometimes, a cavity or an infection causes tooth pain. A broken dental filling or restoration can also cause tooth pain or sensitivity. Our dentists will help find the source of your toothache and provide the appropriate treatment.
What do I do if my gums are bleeding?
You may have gingivitis if your gums bleed after you brush and floss your teeth. Although not an emergency, you must address gingivitis before it becomes periodontitis or gum disease. Routine dental visits and dental cleanings can help stave off gum disease. If you have red, swollen, or bleeding gums, please schedule an appointment. Our dental hygienists offer services that provide a deep clean around and beneath the gums.
Will insurance cover emergency dental treatment?
Insurance coverage for emergency dental treatment can vary depending on your plan. Many dental insurance policies include coverage for emergency care. This can help reduce the cost of treatments like extractions or dental abscesses. Patients should check the details of their insurance policy or contact their provider to understand what types of emergencies they cover. Most dental insurance plans cover at least a portion of emergency exams and treatments.
Can the ER treat dental emergencies?
The ER can treat dental emergencies that relate to pain and prevent infection. For instance, ER doctors can offer pain relief and antibiotics. However, you’ll need to see a dentist for dental procedures like extractions, fillings, or a broken tooth. The ER does not have the training or equipment to handle these treatments. If you face a severe dental emergency after hours, visiting the ER for immediate care may be the best decision. But you will want to follow up with your dentist as soon as possible.
Schedule a Dental Consultation
If you do not have a dental emergency, you can request an appointment with us on our website. You may also call our office at 757.982.8467. Drs. Gwaltney and their office team welcome your questions about your dental concerns or treatment options. We look forward to seeing you at your next dental appointment.