Experiencing a dental emergency? In most cases, our dentists can see you the same day you call. To discuss your options and to schedule an emergency dental visit, please call Hillsborough: 402-445-4647, Village Pointe: 402-505-7474, Ralston Square: 402-733-4441, or Dundee: 402-502-5593 for an appointment at one of our four office locations in Omaha.
Emergency Dental Services in Omaha
Although not a 24-hour emergency clinic, we do reserve several times in our daily schedule for urgent dental problems. Whether you are a current patient or have never visited us before, open emergency dental appointments are available.
Think You May Need a Root Canal?
Root canal therapy relieves the pain caused by advanced tooth infection and saves the tooth. Depending on how far along the infection is, you may not feel any symptoms at a certain point. More often, the following may be signs you can benefit from root canal treatment:
- Significant toothache
- Pain when eating or applying pressure to the tooth
- Lasting sensitivity to hot and cold, even after the hot or cold object is no longer touching your teeth
- A sore on the gums near the area of toothache
If you are experiencing these symptoms, call our dentists in Omaha to arrange an urgent appointment. Other dental issues may be causing your symptoms, but either way we will make sure you are scheduled for the treatment you need.
Common Emergency Dentistry Cases
So what exactly qualifies as a dental emergency? There is a wide range of issues. Anything that feels serious or pressing to you, call our dentists to find out if you need emergency care. The following are some of the most common urgent situations:
- Severe toothaches. As mentioned above, this may be the symptom of advanced infection. Call our dentists right away to schedule an appointment.
- Knocked out tooth. Call our staff to get into our office as soon as possible. It is possible the tooth can be re-inserted by our dentists. If possible, pick up the tooth by its crown (not by the root). Rinse with water and try to re-insert it in the socket right away. Try to gently push with your fingers or bite down. If you cannot do this, make sure it stays moist until you can get to the dentist, either by holding it in your mouth or putting it in milk. If this involves a child and a baby tooth, then do not try to re-plant the tooth.
- Chipped or broken teeth. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clear away any debris from the area, especially if you fell in the dirt or outside when the tooth broke. A cold compress can reduce swelling, if it arises. Give us a call to arrange an urgent appointment. A tooth crown, an inlay or onlay, or dental bonding may be recommended to restore the tooth.
- Swelling of the jaw and/or face. Swelling and soreness in your face may be caused by a dental problem like an abscessed tooth, which is a dental emergency. Swelling may also be caused by teeth grinding or tension on the jaw joints. Call our dentists to schedule an urgent appointment to determine the cause.
- Broken dental restorations. Chipped fillings, broken crowns, loose retainer – anytime one of these dental restorations or appliances are damaged, you should seek repair. Call our dentists to schedule an appointment.
How can Dental emergencies be prevented?
Here are a few tips:
- Wear a sports mouth guard. For football, softball, basketball or any other sport where chances of mouth injury are high, wearing a mouth guard is recommended.
- Don’t chew ice. Hard ice cubes can crack and chip your tooth enamel, so you shouldn’t chew on ice. Similarly, don’t chew on pen or pencil tips. If you want to be abundantly cautious, you may also want to cut up apples, carrots and other firm produce into bite-size pieces.
- Practice good dental hygiene. Because many dental emergencies are caused by decay, infection and inflammation, good oral hygiene can help you avoid these issues. Brush your teeth at least twice a day or after the three main meals, and floss once every day. Don’t forget to visit the dentist for routine cleanings and checkups.
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages. Can’t find the scissors and thinking about opening that plastic package with your teeth? Don’t do it! Protect your teeth by using them only to chew and smile.
Can A Dentist Extract My Tooth During an Emergency Dental Treatment?
At The Dentists, we understand that emergency treatment is a one-way track to immediate relief from any oral pain a patient may be experiencing. Our highly-trained team of dentists, who have years of collective experience in cosmetic dentistry and oral care, are prepared to provide attention to all patients needing emergency treatment.
Each emergency will warrant a different treatment for each patient depending on their injury or oral condition, but if you are in a circumstance where your tooth cannot be saved through any other dental treatment, such as a root canal, a dentist will extract your tooth to prevent further infection from spreading. If this happens, our dentists also have the expertise to recommend a variety of tooth replacement options that can fit your needs, such as dental implants.
What Should I Do If I Need Emergency Dental Treatment?
When it comes to dental emergencies, it’s important to seek treatment right away. While each emergency can be different, it’s important to note that if you or a loved one experiences severe injury or severe bleeding related to your tooth, mouth, or jaw, visiting the emergency room before your local dentist may be the safest option. Although doctors at the ER may be able to alleviate your pain and stop bleeding, it is still highly recommended to visit your trusted, local dentist after your ER visit. This is because dentists have the knowledge and expertise to assess the health of your teeth and how to fix and improve the appearance of your teeth and smile after your emergency if needed.
How Can I Find an Emergency Dentist That Is Right for Me?
Besides asking local friends and family who their dentists may be, the number one way to find a dentist that is right for you is to schedule a consultation with them. Factors such as having a family dentist, office location, and credentials can help patients find a dentist they can trust in an emergency.
Arrange Your Appointment at The Dentists
Ready to schedule your emergency dental appointment in Omaha? Please call one of the following four office locations to inquire about availability: Hillsborough: 402-445-4647, Village Pointe: 402-505-7474, Ralston Square: 402-733-4441, or Dundee: 402-502-5593. The Dentists welcome patients from nearby communities like Bellevue, Lincoln and other areas of Nebraska.