What is Emergency Dentistry?

Emergency dentistry involves treating urgent dental issues that require immediate attention to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, or address serious dental health problems. Unlike regular dental appointments, emergency dentistry provides quick and effective care for situations that can’t wait, such as severe toothaches, dental trauma, or infections.

At Neeley Dental, our emergency dentistry services include:

• Immediate pain relief for dental issues.
• Emergency repairs of damaged teeth or restorations.
• Treatment of infections and abscesses.
• Management of dental trauma resulting from accidents.

Whether it’s a sudden toothache in the middle of the night or a knocked-out tooth from a sports injury, Dr. Steven Neeley and Dr. Michael Litchfield are equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies with expertise and care.

What Are the Benefits of Emergency Dentistry?

Seeking prompt emergency dental care offers several significant benefits, ensuring you receive the best possible outcome in a dental crisis. Here are some key advantages:

Immediate Pain Relief

Emergency dentistry provides swift relief from acute dental pain. Whether it’s a throbbing toothache or severe discomfort from a broken tooth, our team prioritizes quickly getting you out of pain.

Prevention of Further Damage

Addressing dental emergencies promptly helps prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. For instance, treating a cracked tooth early can prevent it from worsening or leading to infection.

Reduces Risk of Infection

Dental emergencies often involve infections or abscesses, which can spread if not treated quickly. Emergency dentistry focuses on controlling infections, reducing complications, and protecting overall health.

Saves Teeth

In cases of knocked-out or severely damaged teeth, prompt emergency care can significantly increase the chances of saving the tooth. Quick action can distinguish between preserving your natural tooth and needing a more invasive procedure like a dental implant.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that you have access to reliable emergency dental care provides peace of mind and reduces anxiety during unexpected dental situations. Dr. Neeley and Dr. Litchfield offer compassionate and professional care, ensuring you feel supported and informed throughout the emergency treatment process.

Common Dental Emergencies

Understanding what constitutes a dental emergency can help you respond appropriately and seek timely care. Here are some common dental emergencies we treat at Neeley Dental:

Severe Toothache

A persistent and severe toothache can indicate underlying issues, such as tooth decay, infection, or abscess. Emergency care focuses on identifying the cause and providing immediate relief.

Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth requires immediate action to increase the likelihood of successful reimplantation. If possible, immediately place the tooth back in its socket or milk and seek emergency care.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

A chipped or broken tooth can be painful and may expose the inner layers to bacteria. Emergency treatment involves repairing or restoring the tooth to prevent further damage.

Lost Filling or Crown

Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to damage and sensitivity. Emergency care involves replacing the lost restoration to protect the tooth.

Abscess or Infection

Dental abscesses are serious infections that can cause severe pain and swelling. Emergency treatment focuses on draining the abscess, controlling the infection, and preventing it from spreading.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Injuries to the gums, lips, or tongue resulting from trauma or accidents may require immediate attention to control bleeding and prevent infection.

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Knowing how to respond during a dental emergency can improve outcomes and reduce anxiety. Here’s a guide on what to do in various dental emergencies:

Severe Toothache

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Floss gently to remove any trapped food particles.
• Take over-the-counter pain relief and apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling.
• Contact Neeley Dental for an emergency appointment.

Knocked-Out Tooth

• Handle the tooth carefully by the crown, not the root.
• Rinse the tooth gently with water if dirty, but don’t scrub it.
• Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket. If not possible, place it in milk or a saline solution.
• Seek immediate care from Neeley Dental within 30 minutes.

Chipped or Broken Tooth

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Apply gauze to any bleeding area for 10 minutes.
• Use a cold compress on the outside of your mouth to reduce swelling.
• Collect any broken pieces of the tooth and bring them to your appointment.
• Contact Neeley Dental for urgent care.

Lost Filling or Crown

• Cover the exposed area with sugarless gum or over-the-counter dental cement.
• Avoid eating on the affected side of your mouth.
• Contact Neeley Dental to replace the filling or crown as soon as possible.

Abscess or Infection

• Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution to alleviate discomfort.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Seek immediate care to prevent the infection from spreading.

Soft Tissue Injuries

• Clean the area with warm water.
• Apply gauze or a clean cloth to control bleeding.
• Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Contact Neeley Dental if bleeding persists or if the injury is severe.

Contact Neeley Dental for Emergency Dentistry in Beaver, PA

When faced with a dental emergency, trust Neeley Dental in Beaver, PA, for prompt and expert care. Dr. Steven Neeley and Dr. Michael Litchfield are committed to providing compassionate and immediate solutions to relieve pain, protect your dental health, and restore your smile. Contact us immediately at 724-774-1149 for urgent dental care or visit our office at 3 Peartree Way, Beaver, PA 15009, for emergency services. Your dental health and comfort are our top priorities.