Dental emergencies can happen to anyone at any time. Dr. Dennis Garpetti and Dr. Brock Hyder work with patients every step of the way to ensure they receive the treatment they need as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, call (208) 254-6365. Our dental care team will work with you to schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.
In the event of a dental emergency, it is imperative that patients visit their dentist as soon as possible. At LIFESmiles in Boise, ID, we work diligently to ensure that our patients receive the care they need as quickly as possible. However, if you are experiencing excessive bleeding or injury to any part of your face, we recommend you call 9-1-1.
Dental emergencies may include:
- Fractured tooth
- Chipped tooth
- Knocked out tooth
- Missing or damage dental crowns
- Excessive tooth pain
We offer a full range of sedation dentistry options to help keep patients comfortable and relaxed throughout their procedure. Sedation dentistry is ideal for patients with dental fear and anxiety, patients who need multiple procedures during one visit, and patients with a strong gag reflex.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
We understand that dental emergencies can happen to any patient, even patients with healthy teeth. However, in some cases, dental emergencies can be avoided. We encourage patients to visit our Boise dental office regularly for routine dental care. Routine dental care visit allows our team of dentists to thoroughly examine your teeth and gums to indefinity any developing oral health concerns. When dental concerns like periodontal disease are caught early, patients may avoid complex issues that may affect the health, function, and appearance of their teeth and bone structure.
Taking preventive action can help keep your teeth and gums healthy, and may even reduce your risk of experiencing a dental emergency. Some key ways for practicing preventive dental care are:
- Wearing a mouthguard during physical activity and contact sports. A well-fitted mouthguard can drastically reduce your risk of injury to your teeth and gums during contact sports.
- Schedule biannual preventive care visits. Preventive care visits allow our team to address any developing oral health concerns and recommend any treatment you may need.
- Practice a healthy oral hygiene routine. Your oral hygiene routine helps to keep your teeth and gums healthy, reduce plaque, and reduce your risk of developing gum disease, tooth decay, and other common oral health concerns.
LIFESmiles Laser & Cosmetic Dentistry also provides a number of general dentistry services in West Boise, Idaho.
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
Anyone can experience a dental emergency. Read the answers to these frequently asked questions to learn more.
Is a severe toothache considered a dental emergency?
Yes, a severe toothache can indicate an underlying issue like an infection, abscess, or deep decay that requires immediate attention. Over-the-counter pain relievers may offer temporary relief, but only a dentist can treat the root cause. Ignoring a toothache can lead to more serious problems, including tooth loss or the spread of infection. Contact us as soon as possible if you’re in pain.
Can I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?
You can go to the emergency room if you have a dental emergency accompanied by severe swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or trauma affecting the jaw or face. However, ERs usually don’t have dentists on staff and can only offer temporary relief. For most dental issues, an emergency dentist is the best choice for proper care.
How do I manage dental pain until I can see a dentist?
You can manage dental pain temporarily with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Rinsing with warm salt water and applying a cold compress to the outside of your face can also help reduce discomfort and swelling. Avoid hot or cold foods that may trigger pain. However, these are short-term solutions. See us as soon as possible for definitive treatment.
Can I treat a loose tooth at home?
No, a loose adult tooth should never be ignored or treated at home. It could be a sign of trauma, gum disease, or a structural problem that needs professional evaluation. Avoid wiggling or chewing on it, and contact our office right away. With early treatment, it may be possible to save the tooth.
Can a chipped tooth be treated as an emergency?
If the chip is small and not causing pain, it may not require immediate attention. However, if the chip is large, sharp, or causes discomfort, it should be treated as soon as possible to avoid further damage or injury to your mouth. We can often repair chipped teeth with bonding or a crown. Even if it seems minor, it’s best to have it evaluated.
What can happen if I delay emergency dental treatment?
Delaying treatment can lead to worsening pain, infection, tooth loss, or more complex and expensive procedures. Infections in the mouth can spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening. Early intervention is key to preserving your oral health and avoiding long-term damage. If you’re unsure, it’s better to get evaluated sooner rather than later.