When to Call an Emergency Dentist
Some dental concerns are easy to recognize right away. Others may start as mild discomfort and become more noticeable over time. If something feels painful, unusual, or concerning, it is better to reach out than wait and wonder.
You should contact a dentist if you are experiencing:
- Tooth pain that does not go away
- A broken, cracked, or chipped tooth
- Swelling near a tooth or the gums
- Pain when biting or chewing
- A lost, loose, or damaged crown
- A lost or damaged filling
- A knocked-out or loosened tooth
- Dental trauma or injury
- A broken bridge, denture, or other dental work
This list is not a diagnosis, but it can help you recognize when it is time to call. If your symptoms are severe, spreading, or affecting your ability to breathe or swallow, seek emergency medical care right away.
Why Prompt Dental Care Matters
Tooth pain and dental injuries do not always improve on their own. A small crack, damaged filling, or lingering toothache can sometimes point to a deeper concern that needs attention.
An emergency dental visit gives Dr. Vince Riggio a chance to evaluate the area, look for the source of the problem, and explain what options may be available. Depending on what is found, the next step may involve repairing a tooth, protecting it, treating infection or inflammation, or discussing whether a tooth can be saved.
The goal is to help you understand what is happening and make a clear plan for getting out of discomfort and protecting your smile.
Common Reasons Patients Call Us
Tooth Pain
A toothache can happen for many reasons, including decay, cracks, bite pressure, gum irritation, or an issue with older dental work. If pain lingers, worsens, wakes you up, or makes it difficult to chew, it should be evaluated.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
A broken or chipped tooth may need attention even if it does not hurt right away. Sharp edges, sensitivity, visible damage, or difficulty chewing are all reasons to call. Dr. Riggio can evaluate the tooth and talk through the best way to restore comfort and function.
Lost or Damaged Dental Work
A loose crown, lost filling, broken bridge, or damaged denture can make eating and speaking uncomfortable. If a restoration comes loose or breaks, keep the piece if you still have it and bring it with you to your visit.
Swelling or Signs of Infection
Swelling around a tooth or the gums should be taken seriously. Call the office for guidance if you notice swelling, pressure, drainage, or worsening discomfort. If swelling is severe or affects breathing or swallowing, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Emergency Dental Care With a Restorative Perspective
Emergency dentistry often connects closely with restorative care. A painful or damaged tooth may need to be repaired, protected, treated, or replaced depending on the situation.
Dr. Riggio’s advanced training in dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, and complex restorative procedures helps him look at both the immediate concern and the long-term health of your smile. During your visit, he will explain what he sees, answer your questions, and help you understand the next step without making you feel rushed.
What to Share When You Call
When you contact our office, it helps to share a few details about what is happening. You do not need to know exactly what is wrong. Just tell us what you are feeling and what changed.
Helpful details include:
- Where the pain or concern is located
- When the problem started
- Whether there is swelling
- Whether a tooth or restoration broke
- Whether the issue was caused by an injury
- Whether you are having trouble eating or chewing
- Whether you are a new or existing patient
The more we know, the better we can help guide your next step.
Emergency Dental Care in Sunset Hills
Sunset Tower Family Dentistry provides emergency dentistry for patients in Sunset Hills, South County, and nearby St. Louis communities. If you are dealing with tooth pain, a broken tooth, swelling, or damaged dental work, our team is here to help you feel heard, informed, and supported.
Call for Emergency Dental Care
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, contact Sunset Tower Family Dentistry as soon as possible. Call 314-849-5600 and tell our team what is happening so we can help you take the next step.
