Same-Day Emergency Appointments
Emergency Dental Care
When you are in pain, you should not have to wait days for help. Our Harrisonburg team on Medical Avenue keeps same-day openings for urgent dental problems, so call us during business hours and we will get you seen and comfortable as soon as we can.
Office line: (540) 280-0179
Common Emergencies
What Brought You In Today?
Severe Toothache
Fast relief for lasting dental pain, which often points to infection or decay that is easier to treat sooner.
Learn MoreKnocked-Out Tooth
Time-sensitive steps and same-day care that give your tooth the best chance of being saved and reimplanted.
Learn MoreBroken or Chipped Tooth
Repair for cracked, broken, or chipped teeth with bonding, a crown, or a veneer based on the damage.
Learn MoreLost Filling or Crown
What to do when a filling or crown comes loose, plus quick replacement so the tooth stays protected.
Learn MoreDental Abscess
Urgent care for a dental infection that can spread, with prompt drainage and treatment to ease the pain.
Learn MoreFirst-Aid Guide
10 Common Dental Emergencies, What to Do
Knocked-Out Tooth
Time is critical. Pick up the tooth by the crown (never the root), gently rinse it if dirty, and try to place it back in the socket. If you cannot, keep it moist in milk or saliva. Get to our office within 30 minutes for the best chance of reimplantation.
Severe Toothache
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, floss gently to clear any trapped food, and take an over-the-counter pain reliever (just do not place aspirin directly on the gum, since it can burn the tissue). Give us a call for a same-day visit, because lasting pain often points to an infection or decay that is easier to treat sooner than later.
Broken, Chipped, or Cracked Tooth
Save any pieces you can find. Rinse your mouth and the fragments with warm water. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling. We can often repair the damage with bonding, a crown, or a veneer depending on the extent of the fracture.
Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling falls out, place a piece of sugar-free gum or dental cement (available at most pharmacies) into the cavity as a temporary measure. If a crown comes off, try to slip it back over the tooth with denture adhesive or toothpaste and call us right away. Do not use super glue.
Dental Abscess
An abscess is a serious infection that can spread, so this one needs prompt attention. You may notice severe throbbing pain, swelling, fever, or a foul taste. Rinse with mild salt water to ease it, then call our emergency line right away, antibiotics and drainage are usually needed and we will get you in quickly.
Soft Tissue Injury (Cut Lip, Tongue, or Cheek)
Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to control bleeding. Rinse with salt water. If bleeding does not stop within 15 minutes or the wound is deep, call our emergency line or go to the nearest emergency room.
Object Stuck Between Teeth
Try to gently remove it with dental floss. Do not use a sharp or pointed instrument, which can damage your gums or tooth enamel. If floss does not work, call our office for assistance.
Broken Orthodontic Wire or Bracket
If a wire is poking your cheek or gum, use the eraser end of a pencil to push it into a more comfortable position, or cover the end with orthodontic wax or a small cotton ball. Call our office to schedule a repair appointment.
Jaw Injury or Possible Fracture
Apply a cold compress to control swelling. If you suspect a broken jaw, stabilize the jaw by wrapping a bandage around the head and under the chin. Go to the nearest emergency room. Once stabilized, contact our office for follow-up dental care.
Severe Bleeding After Extraction
Some bleeding is normal after an extraction. Bite down firmly on a gauze pad for 30 minutes. If heavy bleeding persists beyond an hour, call our emergency line immediately. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw, which can dislodge the blood clot.
When You Call
What to Expect When You Call
We're Here When You Need Us
If you are dealing with a dental emergency, reach out and let us help you feel better fast.