Do I need emergency dentistry?
Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them—whether from sports injuries, slips on the ice, or sudden accidents. We’re here to help address urgent issues quickly and effectively with the care of a trusted emergency dentist in Scarborough.
Any dental problem that requires immediate treatment to save a tooth, stop bleeding, or relieve severe pain is considered an emergency. Infections or abscesses can also become serious and should be treated without delay.
- Severe toothache that interferes with eating or sleeping
- A knocked-out tooth
- Broken or loose braces (contact your orthodontist directly if applicable)
- Chipped or cracked teeth, especially if the damage is significant
- A lost filling or crown
- An abscess or swelling along the gumline
Call us right away if you have:
Dental first aid – what to do
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but staying calm and acting quickly makes all the difference. Follow these first aid tips and see a dental professional as soon as possible.
Toothache
Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) may help—just follow the label and note what you’ve taken for your dentist.
Knocked-out tooth
Act fast—there’s a better chance of saving the tooth if treated within the hour. If the tooth is clean, gently place it back in the socket. If not, store it in milk and call us immediately.
Broken tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water. If there’s bleeding, apply sterile gauze. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and contact us right away for treatment and pain relief.
Abscess
An abscess is a serious infection near the tooth root or gum. It can spread and cause health complications if untreated. Rinse with warm saltwater (½ tsp of salt in 8 oz of water) several times a day and see your dentist as soon as possible.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Follow the first aid tips above, but your first step should always be to give us a call. We’ll guide you over the phone to help manage pain, preserve your tooth, and get you the care you need as quickly as possible.
Pain relievers like Tylenol, Advil, or Aspirin may help take the edge off—if safe for you. Always follow your doctor’s advice and read the label. Pain relief is only temporary; dental pain is often nerve-related and requires professional treatment. Keep track of what you take and share that information with us when you come in.
Yes. If your situation is urgent and you can’t reach a dentist, the ER can provide temporary pain relief or treatment if it’s a medical emergency. However, they typically cannot provide full dental care and will refer you to a dentist.
A broken tooth can collect bacteria, leading to infection, abscess, or nerve damage. Delaying treatment may result in the need for more extensive procedures, such as a root canal.
If left untreated, a tooth abscess can spread to the jaw and other parts of the head or neck. In severe cases, it can lead to sepsis—a serious, potentially life-threatening condition. Prompt treatment is essential.
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