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WHAT IS CONSIDERED EMERGENCY DENTISTRY?
When you’re experiencing a toothache or mouth pain, it can be excruciating – and sometimes, it’s hard to know whether or not the pain you’re feeling is a dental emergency or something you can manage for a few weeks. Our team at BRIGHT Dentistry is here to clear that up as we explain the difference between tooth pain and emergency dental care.
How do I know if I’m having a dental emergency?
A good way to know if you’re having a dental emergency is if you are experiencing severe tooth pain, tooth loss, or uncontrolled bleeding. Some mouth infections are also considered to be life-threatening and should be monitored by your dentist. As a general rule, if you are experiencing severe dental pain, you need to contact your dentist immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.
Do I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
When a dental emergency happens, many people think the emergency room is the place to go. However, the ER isn’t equipped to handle emergency dentistry. In fact, only licensed dentists are legally able to perform tooth extractions, root canals, and more. 99% of dental-related emergency room visits could be handled by a dental office for a fraction of the cost. When a dental crisis happens and you’re determining where to go, give our team a call, and we will take care of you!
What is the most common tooth emergency?
There are some types of dental problems you should never ignore. Toothaches are the most common dental emergency and have multiple causes, from cavities to teeth grinding. To alleviate a toothache, rinse the affected area with warm water and use dental floss to remove any food particles that may be causing the irritation between the teeth. If the pain persists, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Tylenol or Orajel, can help to reduce pain until you can get in.
What are some examples of a dental emergency?
Toothache, chipped or broken teeth, tooth loss, lost filling or crown, bleeding or pain, and abscess or infection.

FAQs
What is emergency dentistry?
Simply put, emergency dentistry is the intervention for urgent situations involving the teeth or the mouth. These are high-risk situations that, left untreated, could lead to infection or tooth loss. A dental emergency can’t be resolved with at-home remedies and requires the immediate assistance of a dental professional.
How do I identify a dental emergency?
Severe tooth pain, a lost or knocked out tooth, and painful and swollen gums are all examples of potential dental emergencies. Exposed nerves, a missing filling, or a broken crown all could constitute a dental emergency. Intervening quickly in these cases can prevent further and more extensive damage from happening.
What emergency dental services do you offer?
At BRIGHT Dentistry, we’re here to keep you smiling BRIGHT – even in the case of a dental emergency. Our skilled physicians are trained in general, cosmetic, surgical, and emergency dentistry and can help patients who are experiencing any kind of oral care need.
Emergencies happen, and we’re here to help when they do. Whether it’s an accident, injury, or unexpected mouth pain, The BRIGHT Dentistry team can easily identify the problem and quickly intervene, saving you time and money.
If you find yourself needing immediate dental intervention, don’t wait. Delaying care for chipped, cracked, or knocked-out teeth can lead to infection or even a dental abscess. A lost crown or filling can cause immense pain and discomfort. Make your emergency dental appointment with BRIGHT Dentistry in Colorado Springs today!