Severe toothache
Persistent, throbbing pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication. Could indicate infection, decay, or a cracked tooth.
Emergencies
Toothache? Call when we open.
Dental pain doesn't wait for a convenient day — and neither do we. Call when we open and we'll do everything we can to find room the same day. Existing patients get priority.
Having a dental emergency?
Call us now. During office hours a real person answers; outside them, leave a message and we'll call first thing.
Call (403) 651-0007Tue, Thu–Sat 9:00am–4:00pm · Wed 12:30pm–7:30pm · Closed Sun & Mon
"When you're hurting, the last thing you need is a phone tree. We keep room in the day for emergencies because a toothache doesn't care what day it is."
What counts as a dental emergency?
If you're unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call us — we'll help you figure out the best next step. It's always better to check.
Knocked-out tooth
Time is critical — the best chance of saving the tooth is within 30 minutes. Keep it moist and contact us immediately.
Cracked or broken tooth
A visible crack, sharp edge, or piece of tooth that has broken off. Even small chips should be evaluated to prevent further damage.
Lost filling or crown
Exposed tooth structure can be sensitive and vulnerable. Don't ignore it — temporary fixes exist while we prepare a permanent one.
Abscess or swelling
Facial swelling, fever, or a pimple-like bump on the gums are signs of infection that need prompt treatment before it spreads.
Bleeding that won't stop
Prolonged bleeding after an extraction, or from the gums, that doesn't stop with pressure after 15–20 minutes.
Emergency room or dentist?
Not every dental emergency needs the ER — and the ER can't always help with dental problems.
Go to the ER if…
- Uncontrollable bleeding that won't stop with pressure
- Jaw fracture or suspected broken jaw
- Severe facial swelling affecting breathing or swallowing
- Dental trauma involving a head injury or loss of consciousness
- High fever with facial swelling
Call us if…
- Severe toothache or throbbing pain
- Knocked-out, cracked, or chipped tooth
- Lost filling, crown, or veneer
- Abscess or localized swelling
- Bleeding that's manageable but concerning
What to do right now
While you wait to see us, here's how to manage common emergencies at home. These are temporary measures — always follow up with us.
Toothache
Rinse with warm salt water. Take ibuprofen for pain (never aspirin directly on the gums). Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek, 15 minutes on, 15 off. Avoid very hot or cold foods and drinks.
Knocked-out tooth
Pick the tooth up by the crown, not the root. Rinse gently — don't scrub or remove any tissue. Place it back in the socket if you can, or keep it in milk or saliva. Call us immediately — every minute counts.
Broken tooth
Rinse with warm water. Apply gauze to any bleeding for 10 minutes. Use a cold compress for swelling. Save any broken pieces and bring them with you.
Swelling or abscess
Rinse with mild salt water several times a day. Do not apply heat — it can make swelling worse. Take over-the-counter pain relief as directed. Call us urgently — infections can spread.
Lost filling or crown
If you have the crown, you can seat it temporarily with denture adhesive or a dab of toothpaste. Avoid chewing on that side. Don't use superglue. Call us to book a repair.
Bitten lip or tongue
Clean gently with water. Apply firm pressure with gauze for 15 minutes. Use a cold compress for swelling. If bleeding won't stop or the wound is deep, seek medical attention.
What to expect at your emergency visit
Our goal is simple: get you out of pain and stabilize the problem as quickly as we can.
- We'll see you as quickly as possible — often the same day you call
- A focused exam to find the source of the pain or injury
- Digital X-rays if needed
- Immediate pain relief and stabilization
- A plain-language explanation — we'll show you what we see on screen
- Treatment options with pros, cons, and costs
- A clear cost estimate before we proceed
- A follow-up plan for full recovery
After your emergency visit
Looking after yourself at home
- Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed
- Stick to soft foods for the first 24–48 hours
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and hot drinks for at least 24 hours
- Ice packs (15 min on, 15 off) for the first 24 hours if there's swelling
- Keep the area clean — gentle brushing and salt-water rinses
- Keep your follow-up appointment — emergency treatment often needs a permanent solution
- Call us right away if pain worsens, bleeding restarts, or you develop a fever
Preventing dental emergencies
Wear a mouthguard
Hockey, cycling, skateboarding — a custom mouthguard is the single best investment against dental trauma. We can make one that fits perfectly.
Don't ignore small problems
A small chip, a little sensitivity, a tooth that feels 'off' — those are early warnings. Handling them now means avoiding emergencies later. Most are preventable with regular checkups.
Kid-proof the routine
Kids are our most common emergency patients. Supervise brushing, discourage chewing on hard things (ice, popcorn kernels, pen caps), and keep mouthguards on for sports.
Dental emergency FAQs
Not an emergency?
Book a regular visit whenever you're ready. Prevention is the best medicine.