Emergency Dentistry

Zeeland, Michigan

Our Procedures

Accidents and dental emergencies can happen anytime, day or night, and often require immediate attention. Seeing an emergency dentist as soon as possible can reduce your chances of losing a tooth or suffering complications down the road.

Is It a Dental Emergency?

If you or a loved one ever experience a dental emergency, make sure to contact State Street Smiles right away. Our experienced team is equipped and fully prepared to provide the needed urgent care! If you experience a life-threatening emergency, please call 911 right away!

To recognize a dental emergency, consider the following questions:

Do you have persistent tooth pain?
Is there uncontrolled bleeding?
Are there signs of infections, such as swelling or fever?
Do you have a pimple-like bump on your gums?
Have you sustained a blow to your face or mouth?
Do you have a loose or knocked-out tooth?

A "yes" response to one or more of the above questions indicates that you're likely experiencing a dental emergency that requires immediate attention.

Common Dental Emergencies

Here are common dental emergencies and tips for stabilizing your condition while waiting for your emergency appointment:

Tooth Pain: Tooth pain can result from an infection, abscess, or deep decay. Use a cold compress to help soothe the area and rinse your mouth with warm water. Tooth pain sometimes results from food stuck between two teeth, so flossing may help alleviate the pain.

Dental Abscess: An abscess is a serious infection that can develop in or around a tooth root. Not only does it cause pain, but the infection can spread to the jawbone, nearby teeth, or even your blood. If you notice a pimple-like bump on a gum, contact our office right away!

Knocked-Out Tooth: Your tooth has the best chance of being saved if treated within an hour of injury. Hold the affected tooth by the crown and rinse it gently with clean water. If possible, return it to its socket and bite down on it to keep it in place. Otherwise, carry the tooth in a small container of milk and take it to your emergency appointment.

Cracked or Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water and place a cold compress against your face to reduce any swelling, which often follows this type of injury. Collect any pieces of your tooth and bring them with you to your emergency appointment.

Lost Crown or Filling: Over-the-counter dental cement or sugar-free chewing gum can help hold your crown in place or to replace your filling until your dental appointment. Make sure you never use super glue to repair any restoration.

Oral Injuries: An injury to your mouth that results in heavy, uncontrolled bleeding can be a serious emergency that may require a visit to your nearest emergency room. Meanwhile, place pressure on the wounded area with a cold compress to control the bleeding.