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Emergency Dentist — Bristol, CT

Fast Relief for Your Dental Emergency

patient smiling while visiting dentist

As they say, accidents happen. Unfortunately, sometimes they can happen to your teeth. If you or one of your loved ones suddenly experiences a dental injury, your first call should always be to Bristol Family Dental. We are the best place for you to get the urgent dental care that you need. When you call, our team will immediately spring into action. We’ll make an appointment to see you as soon as possible (even the same day!), and our team will start to walk you through basic first- aid over the phone.

Why Choose Bristol Family Dental for Emergency Dental Care?

  • Same-Day Appointments Available
  • Flexible Financing Welcome
  • One-Visit Restorations Offered

How We Treat Dental Emergencies

Woman in dental chair holding cheek

When you call us, we’ll ask about your symptoms and provide any necessary first-aid instructions. From there, we’ll schedule an appointment to see you as soon as possible. Upon your arrival, our first priority will be to alleviate any immediate pain, followed by a thorough examination to identify the root of the problem. Once we have a clear understanding of your situation, we’ll discuss your treatment options and associated costs. After agreeing on a treatment plan, we’ll move forward, delivering the prompt care you deserve.

The Most Common Dental Emergencies

Dental emergencies can vary from a severe toothache to a lost tooth. Regardless of the situation, it’s always better to seek treatment promptly rather than adopting a “wait and see” approach. If you're uncertain whether your issue requires immediate attention, we encourage you to reach out to us anyway. We can provide the necessary care the same day! In the meantime, take a look at the information below to learn how to handle some of the most common dental emergencies we encounter.

Understanding the Cost of Dental Emergencies 

patient talking to dentist about financing options

The cost of emergency dental care can vary widely depending on your unique needs. The price largely depends on the complexity of your condition. For instance, a small cavity requiring just a filling will cost less than a more serious issue, such as an infection that requires an extraction. To get an accurate estimate, schedule an appointment with our emergency dentist. During your visit, we’ll assess your condition, develop a personalized treatment plan, and review the cost along with any available financing options.

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

closeup of man flossing

While dental emergencies can't be entirely avoided, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy smile:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time
  • Floss at least once a day
  • Wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth during physical activities
  • Schedule regular checkups and cleanings with your dentist

Dental Emergency FAQs

Man with dental emergency in Bristol

Will my toothache go away on its own?

Toothaches don’t usually go away on their own, so it’s best to schedule a checkup with a dentist as soon as possible to make sure that nothing is wrong. There are many potential causes for a toothache, and you will want to rule them out with a professional as soon as possible. Doing this can help you to catch underlying problems before they become more serious.

How should I sleep with tooth pain?

It can be difficult to get quality sleep when you’re dealing with a toothache at night. Until you’re able to see your dentist in the morning, keep your head elevated. This will prevent blood from rushing to your head and intensifying your toothache. Additionally, take over-the-counter medication as needed and avoid foods that are acidic, cold, or hard right before bed for improved comfort. Cold compresses can also help.

Should I visit the emergency room first for dental emergencies?

Most emergency rooms are not able to address dental emergencies effectively. However, there are three main exceptions where an ER visit is a better option. You should head directly to the ER if you have experienced a jaw fracture or dislocation, serious cut or laceration to the face or mouth, or an abscess or infection that’s swollen to the point of affecting your breathing or swallowing. In nearly all other circumstances, you should see a dentist.

What does throbbing tooth pain mean?

Throbbing tooth pain is likely the sign of an infection or inflammation within the tooth. Cavities or cracks inside the tooth allow for air and bacteria to reach the sensitive inner area where the pulp lies, causing irritation and potential infection of the pulp nerves, therefore causing pain. In other cases, throbbing teeth could the result of chronic teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism).

Are knocked-out baby teeth a dental emergency?

Baby teeth are meant to come out, so you shouldn’t try to place them back into your child’s open socket like you would with a permanent tooth. However, it is possible for baby teeth to come out too soon, so you should schedule them an exam to ensure that no damage has occurred. If bleeding doesn’t stop or you think that your child may have an injured jaw, take them to the emergency room.