Tooth injuries can happen unexpectedly, and knowing when to seek immediate care is crucial for protecting your oral health. Whether it’s a sharp pain, a troubling break, or the worst-case scenario of losing a tooth, understanding the seriousness of these issues is essential. Here’s a quick guide from Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, FL to help you determine if your tooth injury requires urgent attention.
1. Knocked-Out Tooth
This is undoubtedly one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If you or a loved one has a tooth completely knocked out, time is critical. Acting fast increases the chances of saving the tooth. Here’s what you should do:
- Handle the tooth by the crown (top part), not the root.
- Rinse it briefly with water if it’s dirty, but do not scrub it.
- Try to place the tooth back into its socket if possible. If not, store it in a container of milk or keep it in your cheek to stay moist.
- Seek dental care immediately. The goal is to get to a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of reattachment.
At Your Time Dental in Gibsonton, we specialize in providing same-day care for emergencies like this. Dr. Rick Kernagis and our team are here to help save your smile with expert treatment.
2. Severe Toothache
At first glance, a toothache might not seem like an emergency, but severe or persistent pain can indicate a deeper problem. Causes of extreme tooth pain may include:
- An abscess or infection
- Dental decay reaching the tooth’s nerve
- A compromised filling or crown
If you’re experiencing pain that doesn’t subside or worsens, it’s important to address it quickly. Dental infections, in particular, can spread and lead to severe health complications if left untreated.
Our urgent care specialists at Your Time Dental are available, even on weekends, to diagnose and treat severe dental pain. We understand how debilitating a toothache can be, and we’re ready to provide relief.
3. Cracked or Broken Tooth
A cracked or broken tooth can range from mild to severe in urgency depending on the extent of the damage:
- Minor Cracks: May not require immediate attention but should still be evaluated for hidden damage.
- Major Cracks or Breaks (exposing the inner pulp or causing sharp pain): Require urgent dental care to prevent further complications and sensitivity.
If you accidentally chip or break a tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on that side until you can see a dentist.
Your Time Dental in the greater Tampa area offers walk-in appointments and extended Friday hours, so you never have to wait long to get help for your damaged tooth.
Get Emergency Dental Care in Gibsonton
Tooth injuries vary in severity, but when in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and speak to a dental professional. At Your Time Dental, we pride ourselves on being available when you need us most. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, extreme toothache, or a cracked tooth, Dr. Rick Kernagis and our dedicated team are here to provide the care you need.
Because dental emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule, our office is open with extended hours and available for same-day appointments. Contact us immediately if you’re dealing with a dental emergency or have questions about your injury.
Call us today or walk right in for urgent dental care!
Contact Your Time Dental Urgent Care:
LOCATIONS: (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
SOUTH SHORE – GIBSONTON
13145 Kings Lake Drive Ste 105B Gibsonton, FL 33534 Call: 813-519-0128
FISHHAWK – LITHIA
5486 Lithia Pinecrest Rd, Ste B Lithia, FL 33547 Call: 813-519-0128
