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Emergency Dentist in Clarksville – What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Dental emergencies often happen without warning, and when they do, it’s important to know exactly what steps to take. Whether it’s a severe toothache, a broken tooth, or an injury to your gums, acting quickly can make a significant difference in how effectively the problem is treated. At Hillcrest Dental, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, which is why we’re here to guide you through what to do and offer the care you need.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that requires urgent care to relieve pain, stop bleeding, or prevent further damage. Some of the most common dental emergencies include:
- Severe Toothaches: Pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Knocked-Out Teeth: An accident causing a tooth to fall out.
- Broken or Chipped Teeth: Damage caused by an impact or injury.
- Lost Fillings or Crowns: A filling or crown that has come loose and is causing discomfort.
- Abscesses: An infection or swelling around the gums or tooth.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Cuts or tears to the gums, tongue, or lips.
Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency
In an emergency, staying calm and knowing what to do can help you handle the situation with confidence.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
It’s natural to feel anxious during a dental emergency, but try to stay calm. Being level-headed will help you think clearly and act quickly.
2. Contact Hillcrest Dental Immediately
Reach out to our office as soon as possible. We prioritize dental emergencies and will do everything we can to see you the same day. Our team is trained to handle urgent cases efficiently and compassionately.
3. Handle the Injury with Care
- For a Knocked-Out Tooth: Handle the tooth by the crown (the top part) and avoid touching the roots. Gently rinse it with water, but don’t scrub it. If possible, try to place the tooth back into the socket. If you can’t, store the tooth in a container with milk or saline solution.
- For a Broken or Chipped Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. You can apply a cold compress to the cheek near the affected tooth to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
- For Abscesses: If you notice a swelling or pimple on the gums, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and avoid touching the area. A cold compress can also help with discomfort.
4. Manage Pain and Swelling
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help ease the discomfort temporarily. Cold compresses applied to the outside of your cheek can reduce swelling, especially if you have a knocked-out or broken tooth.
5. Seek Immediate Treatment
Dental emergencies often worsen if not treated quickly. Getting to a dentist as soon as possible can increase the chances of saving your tooth or preventing further complications.
How Hillcrest Dental Can Help
At Hillcrest Dental, we are proud to offer same-day emergency dental care to help you get back to your normal routine as quickly as possible. Whether you need a tooth extraction, root canal, or a crown replacement, we’re equipped to handle a variety of dental emergencies with care and precision.
Some of the emergency services we offer include:
- Tooth Extractions: For teeth that are beyond saving, we provide gentle extractions to relieve pain and prevent infection.
- Root Canal Therapy: If you’re experiencing severe pain due to an infection, a root canal can save your tooth and stop the discomfort.
- Fillings and Crowns: If you’ve lost a filling or crown, we can replace it to restore your tooth’s function and appearance.
- Emergency Cleanings: We can clean and treat areas that are swollen or infected to avoid further complications.
- Tooth Repair: Broken or cracked teeth can be repaired to restore strength and prevent additional damage.
Why Choose Hillcrest Dental for Emergency Care?
When a dental emergency strikes, you need a dental team you can trust. Here’s why Hillcrest Dental is the right choice for your urgent care needs:
- Experienced Dentists: Our team is skilled in handling all types of dental emergencies and is dedicated to providing immediate relief and care.
- Modern Technology: We use the latest dental equipment to diagnose and treat your condition quickly and effectively.
- Patient-Centered Care: We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful. Our compassionate team will take the time to ensure you feel comfortable and informed throughout your visit.
- Convenient Location: We are easily accessible in Clarksville, located right next to the YMCA, making it convenient for patients in the area to get the care they need.
Don’t Wait – Get the Care You Need Today
Dental emergencies are unexpected, but you don’t have to face them alone. Hillcrest Dental is here to provide prompt and professional care, helping you get back to your routine with a healthy smile. If you experience a dental emergency, reach out to us immediately, and we’ll make sure you get the care you need as quickly as possible.
Your dental health matters to us, and we’re here to provide the support and expertise you need during an emergency.

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Clarksville since 1981

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Call Us Today at: (931) 283-6660
Call Us Today at: (931) 283-6660