Pleasantview Family Dental Clinic

Emergency Dentistry

Dental pain and injuries never happen at a convenient time. If you’re hurting or have damaged a tooth, call us right away and we’ll get you seen as quickly as we can.

What Counts as a Dental Emergency?

Severe tooth pain, a knocked-out or badly broken tooth, swelling in your face or gums, and bleeding that won’t stop are all reasons to call right away. Smaller issues, like a minor chip or a lost filling without pain, can usually wait for a regular appointment, but should still be checked soon.

In Pain Right Now?

Please call us. Urgent cases are given priority, and a quick phone call is the fastest way to get help.

When to Go to the Hospital Instead

Some situations need immediate medical care. Go to the nearest emergency room, or call 911, if you have swelling that makes it hard to breathe or swallow, swelling spreading toward your eye or neck, a high fever with dental pain, a possible broken jaw, or bleeding that won’t stop after firm pressure. Once you’re safe, we can help with the dental care that follows. For health advice any time, you can also call Health Link at 811.

What to Do Until You See Us

Not sure what to do in the moment? Here’s how to handle the most common dental emergencies.

Knocked-Out Tooth

Hold the tooth by the top, not the root, and rinse it gently if it’s dirty. Try to place it back in the socket, or keep it in milk, and call us immediately. Acting quickly gives the best chance of saving it.

Severe Toothache

Rinse with warm salt water and gently floss to remove trapped food. An over-the-counter pain reliever can help in the meantime, but call us, as severe pain often means infection.

Broken or Chipped Tooth

Rinse your mouth, save any pieces, and use a cold compress if there’s swelling. Avoid chewing on that side until we’ve seen it.

Lost Filling or Crown

Keep the crown somewhere safe and avoid chewing on that side. Pharmacy dental cement can protect the area temporarily. Never use household glue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I go to the ER or the dentist for tooth pain?

For most toothaches, broken teeth and dental infections, a dentist is the right place to go, since hospitals usually can’t fix the tooth itself. Go to the ER if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling spreading toward your eye or neck, a high fever, or a serious facial injury.

Can a tooth abscess go away on its own?

No. An abscess may drain and feel better for a while, but the infection is still there and can spread. It needs treatment, usually a root canal or an extraction, to clear it properly.

Is a chipped tooth an emergency?

A small chip with no pain can usually wait for a regular appointment. A large break, sharp edges cutting your tongue or cheek, or a chip that causes pain should be seen as soon as possible.

What can I take for tooth pain while I wait?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, taken as directed on the package, can help, as can rinsing with warm salt water. Never place aspirin directly on your gums, as it can burn the tissue. Pain relief only buys you time, so call us to treat the cause.

Where can I find an emergency dentist in Edmonton?

Pleasant View Dental is at 11044 51 Ave NW in south Edmonton, near Southgate Centre, and welcomes patients from Pleasantview, Allendale, Lendrum Place, Royal Gardens and surrounding neighbourhoods.