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DENTAL EMERGENCIES « DENTAL CARE

Dental emergencies are not usually life threatening, however, our goal at Altima Dental Centres is to provide comfort and restore function as soon as possible. The following represents some guidelines to understand whether a dental condition is an emergency. All dental emergencies are attended to immediately. Some symptoms may be less severe and considered urgent. What this means is that, although it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible, it is not considered an emergency.

Altima Dental Centres provide extended working hours, including weekends and evenings to provide our patients with access to a dentist as soon as possible. Patients of Altima Dental Centres do not have to wait for hours in a hospital Emergency Department. We always have a dentist on call and are proud to provide our patients with 24-hour access to emergency services.

When to Call a Dentist

Dull, continuous ache Non-emergency Schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience.
Sudden, severe discomfort, accompanied by swelling It could be an emergency Apply a cold compress and see your dentist immediately.
Abscessed tooth Emergency An abscess is a localized pus formation usually located at the root end of the tooth. If the condition is acute and there is infection present the dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics and analgesics before attempting to perform root canal therapy.
Knocked out tooth It is an emergency Control the bleeding by applying direct pressure with a cold compress. Do not remove or be alarmed, as there may be extensive bleeding. Transport the tooth wrapped in a wet cloth or a glass of milk. Do not rinse the tooth.
Broken tooth Emergency Depending on the severity of the fracture, it could cause an infection, which is much more difficult to treat.
Extruded Tooth Emergency Don’t try to force the tooth back into its socket. Gently reposition the tooth to its normal alignment. Hold the tooth in place with gauze or a tissue. You must see your dentist immediately.
Facial fracture Emergency Make sure the airway is open and transport the victim to medical aid as soon as possible, a hospital emergency room or call 911.
Sensitivity to cold Non-emergency Your tooth could be sensitive for a number of reasons. Never apply aspirin or heat to the tooth. Call the dentist and arrange an appointment as soon as possible.
Sensitivity to heat Urgency Sensitivity to heat can indicate that infection is present. See your dentist as soon as possible. If swelling and/or fever are present, consider it an emergency. An abscess could be forming.
Broken Braces and Wires Urgency If the broken appliance can be removed easily, take it out carefully. If not, cover the sharp or protruding portion with gauze, cotton balls, or even chewing gum. Do not remove this and see your dentist immediately.



We have more than 30 locations to serve you better. Call 1.888.81SMILE (76453) to find a local dentist and dental centre near you. Reserve your complimentary consultation today!* New patients are always welcome.

*10-minute complimentary consultation is with a general dentist, & excludes x-rays or new patient exam. Fees may apply with a specialist.