Emergency Dentist in Burlington: What to Do When You Have a Dental Emergency

Emergency Dentist in Burlington: What to Do When You Have a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies never happen at convenient times. Whether it’s a sudden toothache at midnight or a broken tooth during a weekend basketball game, knowing what to do — and who to call — can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth. If you need an emergency dentist in Burlington, Dentistry at LaSalle offers same-day emergency appointments to get you out of pain and protect your oral health.

Common Dental Emergencies

Severe Toothache

A sudden, intense toothache often signals an infection or abscess that needs immediate attention. While waiting for your appointment, rinse with warm salt water, take over-the-counter pain medication, and apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum — this can burn the tissue.

Broken or Cracked Tooth

If you’ve broken a tooth, save any pieces you can find. Rinse your mouth gently with warm water and apply gauze to any bleeding areas. A cold compress on the outside of your mouth will help reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on that side and call us immediately — broken teeth can often be restored if treated quickly.

Knocked-Out Tooth

Time is critical with a knocked-out permanent tooth. Pick it up by the crown (the white part) — never touch the root. If possible, gently place it back in the socket. If you can’t, store it in milk or between your cheek and gum. Get to our office within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown exposes sensitive tooth structure and can be painful. If you’ve lost a crown, try placing it back on the tooth with a small amount of denture adhesive or toothpaste as a temporary measure. Avoid eating on that side and call us to schedule a same-day repair.

Dental Abscess

An abscess is a serious infection that can spread to other parts of your body if untreated. Signs include severe pain, swelling, fever, and a pimple-like bump on the gum. This is a true emergency — don’t wait. Rinse with mild salt water and call us immediately.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

Not every dental issue requires emergency treatment, but you should call an emergency dentist in Burlington right away if you experience:

• Severe, uncontrollable pain
• A knocked-out permanent tooth
• Significant bleeding that won’t stop
• Swelling in your face, jaw, or neck
• Signs of infection (fever, swelling, foul taste)
• A broken tooth with sharp edges cutting your tongue or cheek

What to Expect During an Emergency Visit

When you call Dentistry at LaSalle for an emergency, we’ll get you in the same day. Our team will assess the situation, take any necessary X-rays, and focus on getting you out of pain first. We’ll then discuss your options for definitive treatment.

For patients experiencing dental anxiety — which can be heightened during an emergency — we offer sedation options to help you stay calm and comfortable throughout your treatment.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

• Wear a custom mouthguard during sports
• Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bottles
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or popcorn kernels
• Keep up with regular dental checkups to catch problems early

Call Us Immediately for Emergency Care

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait. Call Dentistry at LaSalle now at (905) 631-1000 for same-day emergency care. We’ll get you out of pain and protect your smile — because emergencies can’t wait for a regular appointment.