Emergency Dentistry

Whether you are dealing with severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, a knocked-out tooth, swelling, or a lost restoration, our goal is to relieve discomfort, identify the cause, and explain what comes next. We use clear language, review any images we take with you, and create a practical treatment plan based on your oral health and immediate needs.

When Should I See an Emergency Dentist?

You should seek emergency dental care for severe tooth pain, uncontrolled bleeding, a knocked-out tooth, significant swelling, or an injury to your teeth or mouth.

If swelling is making it difficult to breathe or swallow, seek emergency medical care immediately.

For other dental emergencies, call Schenk Family Dentistry, so our team can assess the situation and determine how quickly you should be seen. We reserve emergency appointment times when possible and will give you clear instructions before you arrive.

A knocked-out permanent tooth should be handled quickly. If possible, bring the tooth with you in milk or saliva and seek care as soon as you can. Prompt treatment may improve the chances of saving the tooth.

Cuts to the lips, cheeks, or tongue may also need evaluation, especially if bleeding does not stop or the injury is deep.

If your symptoms are less severe, such as mild intermittent discomfort or a loose filling, we can schedule a prompt visit and explain what you can do at home until your appointment.

What Happens at an Emergency Dental Visit?

Your emergency visit starts with a focused evaluation of your symptoms and oral health. We will ask about your pain, examine the affected area, and obtain diagnostic images as needed to determine the cause.

Digital X-rays are used for many emergency evaluations. The iTero Digital Scanner can capture detailed images of tooth surfaces, while our Planmeca low-dose radiation CBCT scanner provides a three-dimensional view of the teeth, roots, and bone when more detailed imaging is necessary.

Once we identify the problem, Dr. Sydney Schenk will explain your treatment options, including what can be addressed immediately and whether additional care may be needed later.

Our priority is to relieve pain, protect your oral health, and make sure you understand the next step.

What Dental Emergencies Do We Treat?

Emergency dental problems we treat include:

• Broken or chipped teeth that may need repair or temporary protection
• Severe toothaches caused by decay, infection, or trauma
• Knocked-out or injured teeth
• Lost crowns or fillings that expose sensitive tooth structure
• Soft tissue injuries involving the lips, cheeks, or tongue

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include a temporary repair, root canal therapy, extraction, or another procedure designed to stabilize the area and relieve discomfort.

When possible, we focus on preserving your natural tooth. If additional treatment is needed, we will explain the recommended timeline and help you plan for a more durable restoration.

What Can I Do for Dental Pain Before My Appointment?

While you are waiting to be seen, a few simple steps may help reduce discomfort:

• Rinse gently with warm saltwater to keep the area clean and reduce irritation
• Apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek for 10 to 20 minutes at a time to help with swelling
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers according to the package directions and your medical history

Avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums or teeth, as this can irritate the tissue.

If medication is prescribed as part of your treatment, we will explain how and when to take it, along with important side effects or precautions.

How Can I Help Prevent Future Dental Emergencies?

Not every dental emergency can be prevented, but routine dental care can reduce the risk of sudden problems.

Regular exams and early treatment can help stop small cavities, cracks, and other issues from becoming more serious. We may also recommend a mouthguard for contact sports or a nightguard if we see signs of grinding or excessive wear.

Digital X-rays and the iTero Digital Scanner can help us monitor changes over time and identify concerns before they become urgent. When needed, the Planmeca low-dose radiation CBCT scanner may provide additional information about the roots, bone, and surrounding structures.

Preventive care helps keep treatment more predictable and can reduce the likelihood of unexpected dental pain.

Need an Emergency Dentist in Mount Airy, NC?

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, call Schenk Family Dentistry for guidance and prompt care. Dr. Sydney Schenk and our team offer same-day emergency appointments when possible and will help you understand what to do next.

We will evaluate the problem, work to relieve your discomfort, and create a clear plan for any additional treatment you may need.