What You Should Do When You Need an Emergency Dentist

A broken tooth, sudden severe pain, or a knocked-out tooth can happen at any time. Having a plan in advance keeps you calm and gets you better care faster.

Step 1: Call Your Dentist First

Always call your dental office first — even outside of business hours. Most practices have an after-hours line or a recorded message with emergency instructions. Magnolia Family Dentistry offers same-day emergency appointments during business hours, and our after-hours message provides guidance for common emergencies.

Step 2: Know When to Go to the ER Instead

Go to the emergency room if you experience:

• Significant jaw swelling extending into the neck
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• High fever with facial swelling
• Uncontrolled bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure

First Aid for Common Emergencies

Knocked-Out Tooth

Handle by the crown (not the root). Rinse gently if dirty — don't scrub. Reinsert if possible. Otherwise, keep in milk or saliva (not water). Get to a dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

Broken Tooth

Rinse with warm water. Apply cold compress for swelling. Save any pieces. Call your dentist immediately.

Severe Toothache

Rinse with warm salt water. Take OTC pain relief (ibuprofen is best for dental pain — it's anti-inflammatory). Do not put aspirin directly on the gum tissue. Call for an appointment.

At Magnolia

We see dental emergencies the same day whenever possible. Our emergency visit is available for $79 (limited exam and X-rays). Call us at (512) 991-3219.