Your Trusted Austin Emergency Dentist

Looking for an experienced emergency dentist in Austin? Balcones Family Dental can assist your family in your time of need, whether you need a dislodged tooth repaired or you have an aching tooth that needs to be seen as soon as possible. While our contact form is convenient, we recommend patients seeking emergency assistance give our office a call so we can get an emergency dental visit scheduled as quickly as possible.

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What are the most common types of dental emergencies?

The most common types of dental emergencies include severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, chipped or broken teeth, and abscesses. Severe toothaches can indicate deep decay or infection, requiring immediate attention. Knocked-out teeth need prompt action to increase the chances of saving the tooth. Chipped or broken teeth can result from trauma or biting hard objects, often needing restoration or extraction. Abscesses are serious infections at the tooth root or gums, causing pain and swelling, and require urgent treatment to prevent the infection from spreading. Addressing these issues promptly can help alleviate pain and prevent further complications.

What do I do in a dental emergency?

Should a dental emergency arise, stay calm and contact our office right away. If you have a dislodged tooth, try to place it back in the socket or keep it in a container of milk until you can get to our practice. For severe tooth pain, rinse your mouth with warm water and use a cold compress on your face to reduce swelling. Avoid putting aspirin on your gums. If you have a cracked tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress. Seeking professional help as soon as possible is the best way to prevent further damage or infection.

Can an emergency dentist remove teeth?

An emergency dentist can remove teeth if necessary, although it’s usually reserved as a last resort. Extractions are typically done when a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or causing extreme pain. Your dentist will first examine the tooth and may take X-rays to assess the situation. If the tooth cannot be saved through other treatments, such as a filling or crown, extraction may be the best option to prevent further pain or infection. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable. After the extraction, you will be provided with instructions for aftercare to promote healing.

Will an emergency dentist do root canals?

Emergency root canals are sometimes performed to save teeth. A root canal becomes necessary when the pulp inside the tooth becomes infected or inflamed, causing severe pain. During the procedure, the dentist removes the infected pulp, cleans the inside of the tooth, and then seals it to prevent further infection. This treatment helps save the tooth and relieve pain. In some cases, our dental team may start the root canal process and refer the patient to a specialist, such as an endodontist, for completion.

How can I prepare for a dental emergency?

Always keep our office information handy and know how to get to our office from your home. Assemble a dental emergency kit that includes gauze, a small container with a lid, salt, and your go-to over-the-counter pain relievers. Practice good oral hygiene regularly to minimize the risk of emergencies, and schedule regular dental check-ups to catch potential problems early. Familiarize yourself with basic first aid for common dental issues, like a knocked-out or chipped tooth, to respond quickly and effectively.

Ready to schedule your emergency visit? Give us a call at 512-387-3958, and our team will be glad to assist.