A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it. Whether you are experiencing sudden pain, trauma to your teeth or a broken restoration, it is important to seek professional dental care right away. At Elrod & Dunham Dentistry, we are prepared to provide prompt, compassionate treatment for a wide range of urgent dental needs. Our experienced dentists and team understand that emergencies are stressful, and we are committed to helping you find relief as quickly as possible with emergency dental care in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia. We are your neighborhood dental home, and we are here to help.
Types of Dental Emergencies We Treat
You should never ignore a dental emergency. If you are in pain or have suffered an injury to your mouth, we encourage you to contact our office immediately. We provide care for many common dental emergencies in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee & Goochland, Virginia, including:
- Severe or persistent toothaches
- Broken, chipped or cracked teeth
- Knocked-out teeth, whether fully or partially dislodged
- Lost dental fillings or crowns
- Injuries to the gums, cheeks, lips or tongue
If you are unsure whether your issue qualifies as a dental emergency, call our office for guidance. We will help you assess your symptoms and determine the best course of action. In most cases, the sooner you seek care, the better your chances are of preserving your oral health and avoiding more complex treatment.
What to Do Before You Arrive
When you call our office with a dental emergency in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, our team will provide instructions on what to do until you can come in. For example, if you have knocked out a tooth, try to keep it moist by placing it back in its socket, holding it between your cheek and gums, or storing it in milk. If you are experiencing swelling, use a cold compress to reduce inflammation.
For head or neck injuries, or if you believe your injury may be life-threatening, please call 911 or visit a hospital emergency room before coming to our emergency dentists in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee & Goochland, Virginia. Once you are cleared of serious medical issues, we will be ready to evaluate and treat your dental concerns.
Emergency Dentistry You Can Rely On
We want you to feel confident that you can count on us during an emergency. Our team prioritizes your comfort and care, and we strive to make every visit as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you are facing a dental emergency in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, call us right away and make an emergency appointment with Dr. Joseph Elrod, Dr. Bryson Dunham and associates. We are here to help you smile again.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dentistry
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency involves any situation that causes significant pain, bleeding or trauma to the teeth, gums or jaw. This can include sudden swelling, signs of infection or a loose or missing tooth. If you are unsure whether your situation is urgent, it is always best to contact a dental professional for advice.
Can I wait to get treatment if I am not in pain?
Even if you are not experiencing pain, certain dental problems can worsen quickly. Issues like cracked teeth or damaged restorations may not hurt initially, but they can lead to infections or further complications if left untreated. Prompt evaluation helps prevent more extensive procedures and protects your long-term oral health.
What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?
If your tooth is knocked out, try to retrieve it by holding it by the crown, not the root. Rinse it gently with water if dirty and attempt to place it back into the socket if possible. If that is not feasible, store it in milk or a tooth preservation product and seek immediate dental care.
Is emergency dental care covered by insurance?
Coverage for emergency dental treatment depends on your insurance plan. Many policies offer partial or full coverage for urgent procedures, especially those related to pain relief or trauma. We recommend contacting your provider to verify your benefits. Our team is also available to help explain options for financing or payment.
What areas do you serve?
Dr. Elrod, Dr. Dunham and our associates provide emergency dental care in Richmond, Mechanicsville, Atlee and Goochland, Virginia, and the surrounding areas. Reach out now if you are experiencing a dental emergency so you can receive the care you need.