Emergency Dental Care in Whittier, CA

Common Dental Emergencies We Treat

At Whittier Surgical Arts, we specialize in treating a wide range of urgent dental conditions, including:

Avulsed Tooth (Knocked-Out Tooth)

Having a tooth knocked out is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. Immediate action can sometimes save the tooth and allow it to be reinserted successfully.

What to do if your tooth is knocked out:

• Handle the tooth by the crown (avoid touching the root).
• Rinse the tooth gently with water if dirty—do not scrub it.
• Try placing the tooth back in its socket if possible.
• Keep the tooth moist by storing it in milk or saline solution.
• Seek emergency dental care within 30-60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

If the tooth cannot be saved, we offer solutions such as dental implants to restore your smile permanently.

Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown can expose sensitive tooth tissue, causing pain and increasing the risk of further damage or infection.

What to do if you lose a filling or crown:

• Keep the area clean and avoid chewing on the affected tooth.
• Use over-the-counter dental cement or toothpaste to temporarily protect the tooth.
• Bring the crown with you if it is still intact.

Seeking immediate professional care helps prevent the need for more complex treatments, such as a root canal or extraction.

Cracked or Broken Teeth

A cracked or broken tooth can range from minor cosmetic damage to a serious fracture that exposes the nerve, requiring urgent treatment.

Symptoms of a cracked or broken tooth:

• Sharp pain when biting or chewing.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
• Visible cracks, chips, or missing portions of the tooth.

If the damage is severe, restorative options such as bone grafting or crowns may be required to restore function and aesthetics.

Dislodged or Loose Teeth

A partially dislodged or loose tooth may still be saved with prompt treatment. Without immediate care, the tooth may fall out or require extraction.

What to do if your tooth is loose:

• Avoid touching or wiggling the tooth.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Seek emergency dental care as soon as possible.

In cases where the tooth cannot be stabilized, options such as regenerative procedures can help restore lost tissue and prepare for a replacement solution.

What to Expect During Your Emergency Visit

At Whittier Surgical Arts, we provide compassionate, efficient care to relieve pain and address the emergency with precision. Here’s what you can expect during your visit:

1. Immediate Evaluation: Our team will perform a thorough assessment, including digital X-rays if needed, to determine the extent of the issue.
2. Pain Management: We prioritize your comfort and will provide immediate relief through medication or sedation options.
3. Treatment Plan: Depending on the emergency, we will provide same-day treatment or schedule follow-up care for complex procedures.‍
4. Aftercare Guidance: You'll receive detailed aftercare instructions to support healing and prevent further complications.

Tips for Preventing Dental Emergencies

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, you can reduce the risk of dental emergencies by following these tips:

• Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities to protect your teeth.
• Avoid chewing hard foods, such as ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent decay and weakening of teeth.
• Schedule regular dental check-ups to catch potential issues early.
• Address minor dental problems promptly before they become emergencies.

If you have dental anxiety, our practice offers sedation options to help you stay comfortable during emergency and routine care.

Why Choose Whittier Surgical Arts for Emergency Dental Care?

At Whittier Surgical Arts, we are committed to providing expert emergency dental care with:

• Experienced Oral Surgeon: Dr. Je Dong Reagan Ryu and Dr. Theodore Tanabe have extensive experience in managing complex dental emergencies with precision and care.
• Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art digital imaging and surgical techniques to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.
• Patient-Focused Care: Our compassionate team is dedicated to making your emergency visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
• Same-Day Appointments: We prioritize dental emergencies and strive to accommodate urgent cases promptly.
• Convenient Location: Our office serves Whittier and surrounding areas, including La Habra, Norwalk, and Downey.