Updated in September of 2025
Often, the need for emergency dentistry is obvious, such as an excruciating toothache, where your only hope of relief is to call your Brentwood dentist for treatment.
But what about other dental problems that arise? Is a chipped tooth a dental emergency? Should you call your dentist if you just have a mild toothache?
The answer is that you should call your dentist as soon as you experience anything out of the ordinary with your oral health. You may not know if you have an emergency, but our experienced dental team will. They’ll ask you about your symptoms to determine how urgent your situation is and how quickly you need an appointment.
Common Dental Emergencies We Treat
We offer prompt, professional care for a wide range of urgent dental problems, including:
- Severe toothaches: Persistent or throbbing pain may indicate an infection or nerve damage that needs immediate attention.
- Chipped or broken teeth: Even small cracks can expose the inner layers of your tooth and lead to further damage or infection.
- Loose or lost dental crowns or fillings: If a restoration falls out, the exposed tooth can quickly become sensitive, painful, or vulnerable to decay.
- Knocked-out teeth: Fast action is critical. Call us immediately — reimplantation is most successful within 30–60 minutes.
- Infected or abscessed teeth: Signs include swelling, pus, fever, or a pimple-like bump on the gums. Untreated infections can spread quickly.
- Bleeding or swollen gums: This may indicate advanced gum disease or trauma and requires evaluation.
- Loose or shifting teeth: Adult teeth should never feel loose. This is often a sign of serious infection or bone loss.
What to Do Before Your Emergency Dental Visit
While waiting to see your emergency dentist in Brentwood, you can take a few steps to manage symptoms and protect your oral health:
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and soothe discomfort.
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for swelling or pain.
- If a tooth is knocked out, gently rinse it (do not scrub) and place it back in the socket or in a cup of milk.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed — but never place medication directly on the gums or tooth.
When in Doubt, Call an Emergency Dentist
Even if you’re unsure whether your situation is urgent, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Dental problems rarely improve on their own and often worsen if ignored. Quick treatment from a trusted emergency dentist in Brentwood can relieve pain, prevent complications, and save your smile.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, call Sullivan Dental Partners at (615) 373-1012 or request an emergency appointment online. Our team is here to help when you need care most.