Emergency Dentistry

Emergency Dentistry in Winter Haven, FL

At Winter Haven Dental in Winter Haven, FL, we take dental emergencies very seriously. We know how stressful it can be to need emergency dentistry in Winter Haven, FL at a dentist near you. People panic during dental emergencies and think of the worst-case scenarios. Finding a dentist in Winter Haven, FL who can take care of you doing this stressful period of your life can make a huge difference.

Fortunately, our dentists are experts when it comes to emergency dentistry near you. People in our community know they can trust us when it comes to dental emergencies. We’ll do everything we can to see you in as little time as possible. Time is of the essence during emergencies, whether they’re medical or dental.

Is It a Dental Emergency?

Patients don’t always know if what they’re going through is a dental emergency. On the one hand, some people think that any dental discomfort is an emergency and warrants an immediate visit to the dentist. On the other hand, others can downplay what they’re going through and postpone seeking help.

Most dental emergencies are due to trauma. If you fall or are struck in the face, your teeth might become loose or get knocked out. Trauma to the face can also lead to temporomandibular joint problems and damage to the jawbones.

If you’re experiencing significant non-stop bleeding from the mouth, you need to see a dentist. Most dental infections also count as emergencies. A dental abscess needs to be seen and treated as soon as possible.

We’re Here to Help

Patients can trust us to take care of them during dental emergencies. Whether you have a knocked-out tooth, damaged jaw, bleeding, or an abscess, we have you covered. We know that dental emergencies can happen at any time. It’s impossible to schedule an emergency appointment ahead of time.

Gaps are intentionally left in our daily schedule so we can accommodate patients who need emergency help without disrupting our scheduled patients. We’ll prioritize your comfort before, during, and after we start working on your dental emergency. Just remember to take a deep breath and calm down.

FAQ's

What counts as a dental emergency?

Severe toothache, facial swelling, knocked-out or loose tooth, broken tooth with pain, uncontrolled bleeding, and injuries to lips or gums are emergencies. Lost fillings or crowns causing pain also qualify. If swelling affects breathing or a fever accompanies spreading infection, seek urgent care first. As an emergency dentist in Winter Haven, FL, Winter Haven Dental prioritizes same-day evaluation.

What should I do if I knock out a tooth?

Hold it by the chewing surface and avoid touching the root. If the tooth is dirty, rinse lightly without scrubbing, then attempt to reinsert it and bite on gauze or store it in milk or saline. Get emergency care within one hour for the best chance of reattachment. Avoid letting the tooth dry out during transport.

How do I handle a severe toothache at home?

Swish warm water, carefully floss to remove anything lodged between teeth, and use OTC pain relievers as instructed. Avoid aspirin directly on the gum tissues. Cold compresses can reduce swelling. If pain persists, worsens, or you notice facial swelling or fever, contact us promptly for evaluation and appropriate treatment to address the cause.

What if my crown or filling falls out?

Keep the crown or filling if possible. For a crown, you may use temporary dental cement from a pharmacy to resecure it until we see you. Avoid sticky or hard foods on that side. Do not use glue. Schedule an urgent visit so we can assess fit, decay, and long-term repair.

Do dental implants hurt?

You should feel pressure but minimal pain during placement with local anesthesia. Post-op soreness is usually manageable with recommended medication and cold compresses. Most people return to normal activities within a day or two. Following instructions on soft foods, hygiene, and avoiding smoking helps reduce discomfort and supports healing.

When should I go to the ER instead of the dentist?

Go to the ER for facial trauma with uncontrolled bleeding, suspected jaw fracture, deep cuts needing stitches, trouble breathing, or swallowing due to swelling. Fever with spreading facial swelling also warrants emergency medical care. Hospital teams manage airway and systemic concerns, and then we coordinate definitive dental treatment after stabilization.

Can a cracked tooth wait?

If you have pain on biting, temperature sensitivity, or visible fracture lines, do not delay. Minor craze lines can wait, but a true crack risks deeper fracture or infection. Avoid chewing on that side and schedule an evaluation. Early treatment, bonding, onlay, or crown, can preserve the structure and reduce the chance of root involvement.

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

Wear a custom mouthguard for contact sports and a nightguard if you grind. Avoid chewing ice, pens, or hard candies. Maintain regular checkups to catch small problems before they escalate. Address broken fillings or cavities promptly. Good home care and fluoride exposure strengthen teeth, lowering the risk of chips, decay, and infection.

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