Emergency Care & Pain Management

Emergency Care

Emergency dental care appointments are designed to address urgent dental problems that require immediate attention to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, or treat potentially serious conditions. These appointments are typically prioritized over routine visits, as they deal with issues that cannot wait for a scheduled check-up.

Common reasons for emergency dental care include severe toothaches, dental trauma (such as a knocked-out, chipped, or fractured tooth), abscesses or infections, lost or damaged dental restorations (like crowns or fillings), and uncontrolled bleeding in the mouth. Emergency dental care aims to provide prompt relief, stabilize the condition, and, when necessary, develop a treatment plan for further care.

Patients experiencing sudden or intense symptoms, such as swelling, difficulty chewing, or signs of infection like fever or pus, should seek emergency dental care immediately, as these issues can lead to more severe health complications if left untreated.

Root Canals

Root canals are dental procedures designed to treat infection or damage within the pulp of a tooth, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When the pulp becomes infected due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental work, it can cause significant pain and lead to further complications if untreated. During the procedure, the dentist or endodontist first numbs the area with local anesthesia for patient comfort. They access the pulp chamber through a small opening in the crown of the tooth, remove the infected pulp, and clean and shape the root canals. Once cleaned, the canals are filled with a biocompatible material called gutta-percha to prevent future infection.

The tooth is then typically restored with a crown or filling for strength and function. Root canals are effective in saving teeth that might otherwise need to be extracted, allowing patients to keep their natural teeth. While some may worry about pain, advancements in dental technology have made the procedure relatively comfortable, with many patients experiencing minimal discomfort.

Extractions

Dental extractions are procedures in which a dentist removes a tooth from its socket in the bone. Extractions may be necessary due to severe tooth decay, periodontal disease, overcrowding, impacted teeth (such as wisdom teeth), or to prevent infection. The procedure typically begins with the dentist administering local anesthesia to numb the area for patient comfort. In more complex cases, such as impacted teeth, sedation may also be used. Once numb, the dentist uses specialized instruments to loosen and carefully remove the tooth.

After the extraction, the dentist provides post-operative care instructions, including managing bleeding, pain relief, and maintaining oral hygiene to promote healing. While dental extractions may sound daunting, they are common and can relieve pain and prevent further issues. Most patients find the process straightforward and recover quickly with proper care.

Temporary Fillings

Temporary fillings are used to protect or fill teeth until a permanent filling is placed. They’re applied when immediate treatment isn't possible or further assessment is needed. After cleaning the cavity, the dentist fills it with a temporary material, often glass ionomer or resin, to seal and protect the tooth. These fillings are meant to last a few days to weeks, and patients are advised to avoid hard or sticky foods to prevent dislodging.

When ready, the dentist replaces the temporary filling with a permanent, durable material like composite resin, amalgam, or gold. Temporary fillings help manage dental health until a long-term solution is applied.

Virtual Care

We offer virtual appointments to provide convenient and accessible dental care for our patients. This option allows patients to consult with our dental professionals from the comfort of their own homes using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. During a virtual appointment, patients can discuss their dental concerns, ask questions, and receive professional guidance without needing to visit the office in person. These appointments are particularly useful for follow-up consultations, discussing treatment options, or addressing minor issues that do not require a physical examination. To schedule a virtual appointment, patients can simply call our office or use our online booking system.

Once scheduled, they will receive a link or access code to join the appointment at the designated time. Our dental team will guide them through the process, ensuring a smooth and effective consultation. Virtual appointments are designed to enhance patient convenience, reduce travel time, and improve access to dental care, especially for those with busy schedules or mobility challenges. By utilizing technology, we strive to maintain high-quality care while adapting to the needs of our patients.

TMD/TMJ

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) encompasses various conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull and facilitates movements like chewing and speaking. TMD can result from factors such as jaw injuries, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), and jaw misalignment. Common symptoms include jaw, face, or neck pain, difficulty opening or closing the mouth, clicking or popping sounds, and headaches. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough examination and imaging studies, like X-rays, to assess the joint's structure.

Treatment options vary based on severity and may include physical therapy, pain-relief medications, stress management techniques, and oral appliances. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Overall, TMD management focuses on relieving symptoms and improving jaw function, helping individuals return to their normal activities without discomfort.