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Dental Emergency Specialist

John E Taylor, DDS

General Dentist & Cosmetic Dentist located in Ladera Ranch, CA

When a dental emergency strikes, it’s important to have a dentist you can trust to care for your teeth. At the office in Ladera Ranch, California, John E. Taylor, DDS, and his team understand how important it is to get the care you need during a dental emergency. Whether you experienced a severe injury, such as a broken tooth or knocked-out tooth, or are experiencing sudden tooth pain, Dr. Taylor and his team have the skill and experience to restore your smile. Call John E. Taylor, DDS, or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

Dental Emergency Q&A

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any type of dental problem that can’t wait. Most dental emergencies cause bleeding, swelling, pain, or even bite changes that require immediate treatment. 

The longer you wait to get treatment for a dental emergency, the more likely you are to experience long-term side effects, such as pain, damage, and even tooth loss.

How can I tell if I have a dental emergency?

You may need emergency care if you experience sudden:

  • Swelling or inflammation
  • Bleeding
  • Tooth pain
  • Gum pain
  • Knocked-out teeth
  • Broken teeth

A sudden rush of pus in your mouth is also a sign of a dental emergency, as it can indicate a painful tooth infection.

How should I handle a dental emergency?

The first step in a dental emergency is to call Dr. Taylor. Once you explain your symptoms, he can schedule an emergency appointment and tell you how to best care for your teeth and gums before your visit.

How to protect your oral health before your visit depends on the emergency. Some of the most common reasons for an emergency visit include:

Knocked-out tooth

If you have a knocked-out tooth, try to locate the tooth and put it in a cup of milk or saliva, but don’t place it in water. This can help protect the tooth before your visit. If you’re in extreme pain, take anti-inflammatory medication to reduce your swelling and pain.

Broken tooth

A broken tooth can feel very painful. If you have a broken or severely cracked tooth, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and take anti-inflammatory medication before your appointment.

Tooth abscess

An abscess is a painful sac of pus that forms on the root of your tooth if you have a severe tooth infection. You can use a cold compress and take anti-inflammatories to reduce pain and swelling before your appointment. It’s also important to gargle with warm saltwater.

If you have extreme bleeding that won’t stop from an injury, head to the emergency room right away.

To schedule an appointment with John E. Taylor, DDS, call or schedule an appointment online today.