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Emergency Dentistry Specialist

Menlo Park Family Dental

General Family Dentistry & Cosmetic Dentistry located in Menlo Park, CA

If you develop a toothache or damage a tooth while playing sports, emergency dentistry can ease pain and prevent complications. At Menlo Park Family Dental, the team offers a variety of emergency dentistry services, including appointments as early as 7 AM. To schedule an appointment at the Menlo Park, California, office, call and speak with a friendly staff member, or book a consultation online today.

Emergency Dentistry Q & A

What is emergency dentistry?

Emergency dentistry provides prompt treatment for accidents, injuries, and oral health problems requiring immediate attention. If you chip a tooth, lose a tooth, or develop a severe cavity, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Waiting too long could mean the difference between an easy fix or complications.

What types of problems does emergency dentistry treat?

Menlo Park Family Dental uses emergency dentistry to treat a variety of problems, including:

  • Chipped, cracked, or fractured teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • Damaged crowns, bridges, and dental implants
  • Severe toothaches
  • Oral abscesses and infections
  • Swollen gums
  • Tongue injuries
  • Facial pain


You might also benefit from emergency dentistry if you get a foreign object lodged between your teeth.

What steps should I take if I lose a permanent tooth?

If you lose a permanent tooth due to an automobile accident, sports injury, or slip-and-fall, it’s important to stay calm and act quickly. First, pick up the tooth by the crown and rinse off any debris with cool tap water. Then, try to put the tooth back in its socket. If the tooth won’t stay in place, you can put it in a glass of milk or tuck it inside your cheek.

Next, call Menlo Park Family Dental. When you speak with the receptionist, explain the events leading up to your dental emergency and explain your symptoms. The team may be able to provide a few tips to ease any pain.

If you lose a tooth outside of normal business hours, call the 24/7 on-call emergency number. A team member can tell you what steps to take next.

How can I prevent the need for emergency dentistry?

There’s no way to prevent the need for emergency dentistry entirely, but there are several steps you can take to significantly lower your risk.

First, make sure to practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and visit Menlo Park Family Dental once every six months for a professional cleaning and exam.

If you play contact sports or enjoy activities like biking or skateboarding, always wear a mouthguard. This can protect your teeth and gums from falls or direct impacts. Additionally, if you grind your teeth or clench your jaws during sleep, wear a nightguard.

You should also try and avoid bad habits like nail-biting or chewing on ice and hard candies. Your tooth enamel is tough, but these activities cause damage over time.

If you or a loved one needs emergency dentistry, schedule an appointment at Menlo Park Family Dental. Call the office and speak with a friendly staff member, or book a consultation online today.