Dr. Corey Bickler Talks About Dental Emergencies
Dental Emergencies
Call ASAP To Preserve Your Smile
Get Fast Help From Your Emergency Dentist in Salem
A broken tooth or sudden toothache can derail your entire day. You may not know what happened or how serious the problem is, but you know that you need help right away. You can call Dr. Bickler, your emergency dentist in Salem, when you need quick assistance. Our team can handle your unexpected dental problem with care and ease. We make every effort to treat dental emergencies the same day whenever possible. You may also be able to reach your dentist for after-hours emergencies. No insurance? Join our VIP Club for savings One annual emergency exam is included as part of your membership.
How We Restore Your Smile During an Emergency Visit
At Bickler Dentistry, we move quickly to assess your situation and start treatment as quickly as possible. Emergency dentistry is not one specific procedure. Dr. Bickler recommends treatment based on the cause of your pain or damage and the most efficient path to relief and restored oral health.
Don't spend another day trying to work around dental pain or a broken tooth. Visit Dr. Bickler, your emergency dentist in Salem, for same-day emergency appointments whenever possible. Get back the healthy, confident smile you know and love.
Treat Decay
A cavity may cause pain when decay has damaged enough of the tooth's structure. Composite fillings allow us to remove the decay and restore the affected area.
Rebuild Damage
Your dentist can restore damaged or severely decayed teeth with a crown. CEREC technology allows us to create your custom crowns in our office. If the damage or decay isn't too severe, you can get a partial crown and keep more of your dental structure.
Treat Gum Disease
Swollen, tender, or bleeding gums can indicate gum disease that needs prompt attention. We will examine your gums and recommend treatment to control the infection and help restore your oral health.
Save an Infected Tooth
When infection reaches the inside of your tooth, root canal therapy may allow us to save it. Your dentist removes the affected tissue and strengthens the tooth with a crown afterward.
Extract an At-Risk Tooth
Sometimes damage or infection is too extensive and poses a risk to other teeth. When necessary, Dr. Bickler can gently extract a tooth and replace it with a custom restoration.
Common Questions About Dental Emergencies
Q What counts as a dental emergency?
Common dental emergencies include a toothache, a cracked or broken tooth, a knocked-out tooth, or a lost filling or crown that's causing pain or sensitivity. If you're experiencing significant pain, swelling, or bleeding, contact a dentist right away rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
Q Can I get a same-day appointment for a dental emergency?
Many practices prioritize same-day appointments for dental emergencies. If you're experiencing significant pain or damage, it's best to call as soon as the issue occurs. Your dental team can find the earliest available appointment time for you.
Q What should I do if I have a toothache?
If you're experiencing a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss around the area. This can rule out trapped food as the cause. If the pain persists, contact your dentist promptly. A toothache can indicate an underlying issue, such as decay or infection, that requires prompt treatment.
Q What happens if a tooth gets knocked out?
If a tooth is knocked out, try to keep it moist/ Place it back in the socket if possible or store it in milk, and see a dentist immediately. Acting quickly, ideally within an hour, gives the best chance of successfully saving and re-implanting the tooth.
Q Can a cracked tooth be repaired the same day?
In some cases, a cracked tooth can be repaired the same day. Practices with in-house crown milling technology can design and place a same-day crown to repair a cracked tooth in a single visit. It avoids the need for a temporary restoration and a second appointment.
Q Is it possible to reach a dentist after hours for an emergency?
Some practices allow patients to reach their dentist directly for after-hours emergencies. It's worth asking your dental office about their specific after-hours policy. You will know what to do if an emergency arises outside of business hours.
Q What happens if I ignore a dental emergency?
Ignoring a dental emergency can allow the underlying problem - whether it's an infection, a crack, or decay - to worsen over time. This often leads to more extensive and costly treatment down the road. It can also prolong pain and discomfort in the meantime.
Q Will I need sedation for emergency dental treatment?
Sedation isn't required for every emergency dental treatment. It's often available for patients who feel anxious or are undergoing a more involved procedure. Your dental team can discuss sedation options with you as part of your emergency treatment plan.
