Emergency Dentist | Dr. Rebecca Irene Peña
Treating Dental Emergencies in Lakewood, CA
When faced with a dental emergency, your overall health and the preservation of your teeth and gums are at immediate risk. Without prompt care by a dental professional, you may suffer permanent damage or the loss of one or more of your teeth. Understanding what constitutes an emergency and taking immediate action is crucial.
Experiencing a dental emergency?
Call us today for immediate care in Lakewood, NJ, and let our team provide the relief and treatment you need!
What is Considered a Dental Emergency?
Any dental problem requiring immediate attention is a dental emergency. Severe pain that does not resolve itself, bleeding that will not stop, and broken facial or jaw bones are indicators of dental emergencies. Common dental emergencies include:
- A severe toothache
- A cracked or broken tooth
- A partially dislodged tooth
- A knocked-out tooth
- An abscess or swelling in the face or jaw
- A broken dental restoration
- A severe injury to the lips, tongue, or gums
- Sudden onset of sensitivity to hot and cold foods and beverages
- A loose tooth
- Something stuck between the teeth
Trust Dr. Peña With Your Dental Emergency
Dr. Peña, with over two decades of experience, has provided comprehensive care to patients in Los Angeles County. Using advanced diagnostic and treatment tools, she can quickly determine the source of your pain and diagnose any dental emergency, developing an immediate treatment plan to alleviate your discomfort and save your tooth whenever possible.
When you call the office, even on weekends or after hours, you will always be able to talk to a real person. You will also be referred to Dr. Peña when emergency care is needed, even on Sundays. She is committed to ensuring that her patients never suffer pain needlessly.
What should I do if I have a dental emergency after business hours?
If you experience a dental emergency after business hours, don’t hesitate to contact our office immediately. We will arrange an emergency dental appointment for the same day if appropriate. We offer extended hours and weekend appointments for emergency dental care as well. If you call after hours, our answering service will provide instructions and direct you to the appropriate care or contact Dr. Peña directly.
Dental Emergency Frequently Asked Questions
Will my dental insurance cover emergency dentist services?
Most dental emergencies are covered by dental insurance. We will work with your insurance provider to maximize your coverage.
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
If possible, save the tooth by picking it up by the crown (the top part of the tooth) without touching the root. Rinse it gently and place it back into the socket (do not force it). If it can’t be put back in place, put it in a cup with saliva or milk to keep it moist. In either situation, contact us immediately. We are more likely to save your tooth if we can see you within 30-60 minutes after the tooth is knocked out.
How do I treat a cracked tooth?
A cracked tooth should be treated as soon as possible. However, until Dr. Peña can see you, you can control any pain by taking over-the-counter pain relievers and applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek. Rinsing with warm salt water will also soothe the area and reduce bacteria around the cracked tooth.
When should I go to the ER vs. the dentist?
Dr. Peña can treat most dental emergencies; however, if you have suffered significant facial trauma or fear that your jawbone may be broken, it is best to go directly to the Emergency Room, where an oral surgeon can evaluate you. You should also see an ER physician if you have a high fever, cannot stop significant bleeding, are in unbearable pain, or have pus-like discharge in the mouth and chills.
What If I Have Something Stuck in My Teeth?
If food debris gets lodged between your teeth, it can cause pain and lead to problems with alignment or infection if not removed. You can usually remove any debris by gently flossing. Never use a knife, fork, or other sharp object to dislodge the object, as this could damage the tooth enamel or your gums. If you cannot remove something stuck between teeth, contact our office for an appointment.
Last Minute Dental Appointments are Available for Emergency Dental Care by Calling Lakewood Office Phone Number 562-920-1726.