Dental emergencies don't wait for convenient times. Whether it's severe tooth pain at midnight, a knocked-out tooth during a weekend game, or a broken crown on a holiday, knowing when to seek emergency dental care—and where to find it in Chattanooga—can save your tooth and relieve your pain fast.

At Harrison Family Dentistry, we provide same-day emergency dental care for patients throughout Chattanooga, Hixson, Ooltewah, and surrounding areas. Here's what you need to know about dental emergencies and how we can help.

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What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

Not every dental issue requires immediate attention, but some situations demand urgent care to prevent permanent damage or serious complications.

True Dental Emergencies (Call Immediately)

Knocked-Out Tooth

Time is critical. If you can get to a dentist within 30-60 minutes, the tooth may be saved. Rinse it gently, keep it moist (in milk or saliva), and call us immediately.

Severe Tooth Pain

Intense, persistent pain that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication may indicate an abscess or infection requiring immediate treatment.

Broken or Cracked Tooth

A fractured tooth with sharp edges can damage your tongue or cheeks and may expose the nerve, causing severe pain.

Abscess or Facial Swelling

Swelling in your face, gums, or jaw can indicate a serious infection that may spread if left untreated. This is a medical emergency.

Uncontrolled Bleeding

Bleeding that won't stop after 10-15 minutes of applied pressure requires immediate dental attention.

Trauma to the Jaw

Any injury that makes it difficult or painful to open or close your mouth should be evaluated right away.

Urgent Issues (Call Same Day)

Lost Filling or Crown

While not always painful immediately, exposed tooth structure is vulnerable to further damage and sensitivity.

Broken Orthodontic Appliance

Wires or brackets that are poking or cutting your mouth need quick adjustment.

Persistent Sensitivity

Sudden, severe sensitivity to hot or cold that doesn't go away may indicate a crack or deep cavity.

Can Wait for Regular Appointment

Dull Toothache

Mild discomfort that responds to over-the-counter pain relief can usually wait a day or two.

Small Chip

Minor cosmetic chips without pain or sharp edges aren't urgent but should still be addressed soon.

Lost Temporary Crown

Uncomfortable but not an emergency if the tooth isn't sensitive.

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What to Do Before You Get to the Emergency Dentist

Taking the right steps before you arrive can make a significant difference in the outcome.

For a Knocked-Out Tooth:

• Handle by the crown (top), not the root
• Rinse gently with water (don't scrub)
• Try to place it back in the socket
• If that's not possible, keep it in milk or saliva
• Get to the dentist within 30-60 minutes

For Severe Pain:

• Rinse with warm salt water
• Take over-the-counter pain reliever (ibuprofen works best for dental pain)
• Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face
• Avoid hot, cold, or sweet foods

For a Broken Tooth:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water
• Save any pieces you can find
• Cover sharp edges with dental wax or sugar-free gum
• Take over-the-counter pain medication if needed

For Bleeding:

• Rinse with warm salt water
• Apply gauze with firm pressure for 10-15 minutes
• Use a cold compress on the outside of your face
• Avoid aspirin (it thins blood)

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Emergency Dental Care at Harrison Family Dentistry

When you call our Chattanooga office with a dental emergency, here's what to expect:

Immediate Response

We prioritize emergency calls and work to see you the same day—often within hours. Our team will:

• Assess your situation over the phone
• Provide immediate guidance for pain management
• Schedule you for the earliest available appointment
• Give clear directions on what to do until you arrive

Comprehensive Emergency Treatment

During your emergency visit, we'll:

• Conduct a thorough examination
• Take digital X-rays to diagnose the problem
• Discuss treatment options and costs upfront
• Provide immediate pain relief
• Perform necessary procedures to save your tooth when possible

Advanced Technology for Fast Relief

Our Chattanooga dental practice uses advanced technology that allows us to provide comprehensive emergency care:

• Digital 3D CBCT X-rays for instant diagnosis
• CEREC same-day crowns when you need a crown immediately
• Sedation options for anxious patients or complex procedures
• In-house labs for faster treatment

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Common Emergency Dental Procedures

Emergency Root Canal Therapy

When infection reaches the tooth's pulp, a root canal relieves pain and saves the tooth from extraction.

Tooth Extraction

Sometimes saving a tooth isn't possible. We perform gentle tooth extractions with sedation options for your comfort.

Emergency Crown Placement

Broken or severely damaged teeth can often be restored with a same-day crown using our CEREC technology.

Abscess Treatment

Dental abscesses require drainage and antibiotics to prevent the infection from spreading.

Re-Cementing Crowns or Bridges

Lost restorations can often be quickly re-attached if you bring them with you.

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Preventing Dental Emergencies

While not all emergencies are preventable, you can reduce your risk:

• Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings
• Address small problems before they become emergencies
• Wear a mouthguard during sports
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels
• Don't use your teeth as tools (opening packages, bottles)
• Practice good oral hygiene to prevent decay and gum disease

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Cost and Payment Options for Emergency Dental Care

We understand that dental emergencies are stressful enough without worrying about cost. At Harrison Family Dentistry:

• We provide transparent pricing before treatment
• We maximize your dental insurance benefits
• We offer flexible payment plans through CareCredit and Cherry Financing
• We never compromise quality care due to financial concerns
• We'll work with you to find a solution that fits your budget

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Emergency Dental Care FAQs

Should I go to the ER or emergency dentist?

For dental issues (tooth pain, broken tooth, lost filling), an emergency dentist is your best option. Hospital emergency rooms can't perform dental procedures and will typically refer you to a dentist anyway. Go to the ER if you have uncontrolled bleeding, severe facial swelling affecting breathing, or jaw trauma.

Do you see emergency patients after hours?

We prioritize emergency patients during business hours and do our best to accommodate urgent cases. Call our office at (423) 344-3884 and follow the prompts for emergency guidance.

What if I'm not a current patient?

We welcome new patients experiencing dental emergencies. You don't need to be an existing patient to receive emergency care.

How quickly can you see me?

Most emergency patients are seen the same day, often within a few hours of calling. We understand that dental pain can't wait.

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