Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them—during dinner, at a weekend sports game, or even in the middle of the night. Whether you’re dealing with a severe toothache, a broken tooth, or a knocked-out tooth, knowing what to do in those critical moments can make all the difference in saving your smile.
If you live in Fishhawk, Apollo Beach, St. Petersburg, or Palmetto, Watts Dental is here to provide fast, compassionate, and expert emergency dental care when you need it most.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common dental emergencies, what steps to take immediately, and when to call Watts Dental right away.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires immediate treatment to:
- Stop severe pain
- Control bleeding
- Prevent infection from spreading
- Save a tooth
- Protect your overall health
If you’re unsure whether your situation is urgent, it’s always better to call. Prompt treatment often prevents more serious (and more expensive) complications later.
Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do
1. Severe Toothache
What It Might Mean
A persistent or intense toothache may be caused by:
- Tooth decay
- An abscess (infection)
- A cracked tooth
- Gum infection
- Impacted food debris
If the pain is sharp, throbbing, or accompanied by swelling or fever, it could signal a serious infection that needs immediate care.
What to Do Right Away
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Gently floss to remove trapped food.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers (never place aspirin directly on the tooth).
- Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for swelling.
When to Call Watts Dental
Call immediately if:
- The pain is severe or worsening
- You notice swelling in the face or jaw
- You have a fever
- There is a bad taste in your mouth (possible infection)
An untreated dental infection can spread and become a serious health issue. Don’t wait.
2. Broken or Chipped Tooth
What It Might Mean
Teeth can break from:
- Biting something hard
- Sports injuries
- Falls
- Untreated decay
- Large fillings weakening the tooth
Even if it doesn’t hurt, a broken tooth should be evaluated quickly.
What to Do Right Away
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Save any broken pieces if possible.
- Apply gauze if bleeding.
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
When to Call Watts Dental
Call right away if:
- The break is large
- You feel sharp edges
- The tooth is sensitive to temperature
- There is pain
Delaying treatment can lead to infection or further damage. Early care may allow us to restore the tooth with bonding or a crown instead of more complex treatment.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)
This is one of the most urgent dental emergencies.
What to Do Immediately
Time is critical — you have about 30–60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root.
- Rinse it gently with water if dirty (do NOT scrub).
- Try to place it back into the socket if possible.
- If you can’t reinsert it, place it in:
- A container of milk
- Saline solution
- Your own saliva
Do NOT let the tooth dry out.
Call Watts Dental Immediately
This situation requires immediate professional care. The faster you act, the better the chance of saving the tooth.
4. Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a serious infection that forms at the root of a tooth or in the gums.
Symptoms May Include:
- Severe, throbbing pain
- Swelling in the face or jaw
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Pus or a bad taste in the mouth
This Is a Medical Emergency
An untreated abscess can spread to other parts of the body. If you suspect an abscess, call Watts Dental immediately.
5. Lost Filling or Crown
While not always painful at first, losing a filling or crown exposes the tooth to bacteria and damage.
What to Do:
- Keep the crown if you have it.
- Avoid chewing on that side.
- Use temporary dental cement (available at pharmacies) if necessary.
Call us as soon as possible to restore the tooth and prevent further complications.
When Should You Call Watts Dental Right Away?
You should contact Watts Dental immediately if you experience:
- Severe tooth pain
- Swelling of the face or jaw
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- A knocked-out tooth
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, swelling)
- Trauma to the mouth
Even if you’re unsure, it’s always better to call and speak with our team. We can guide you on next steps and determine how urgently you need to be seen.
Why Fast Treatment Matters
Delaying treatment during a dental emergency can result in:
- Tooth loss
- Infection spreading to other areas
- Bone damage
- More complex and costly procedures
At Watts Dental, we prioritize emergency cases and work to provide same-day care whenever possible.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While not all emergencies can be avoided, you can reduce your risk by:
- Visiting us regularly for exams and cleanings
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports
- Avoiding chewing ice or hard objects
- Treating small cavities before they worsen
- Not using your teeth as tools
Prevention is always easier — and less stressful — than emergency treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: How do I know if my toothache is serious?
If your toothache lasts more than a day, becomes severe, or is accompanied by swelling or fever, it’s likely serious and requires immediate attention.
Q: Can a knocked-out tooth really be saved?
Yes — if treated within 30–60 minutes and handled properly. Keep the tooth moist and call us immediately.
Q: Is facial swelling always an emergency?
Yes. Swelling can indicate infection, which may spread if untreated.
Q: Should I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
Go to the ER if:
- You have difficulty breathing or swallowing
- There is severe facial trauma
- Bleeding won’t stop
For most dental emergencies, calling Watts Dental directly is the fastest way to receive appropriate care.
Q: What if my emergency happens after hours?
Call our office. We provide instructions and next steps for urgent situations.
Q: Can I wait if the pain goes away?
Pain that “goes away” may mean the nerve has died — which can actually signal worsening infection. Always get it checked.
Q: Are broken teeth always painful?
Not always. Even painless cracks can lead to infection if untreated.
Q: How can I reduce pain until my appointment?
- Cold compress
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Avoid chewing on the affected side
- Keep the area clean
Emergency Dental Care Near Fishhawk & Apollo Beach
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency in Fishhawk, Apollo Beach, St. Petersburg, or Palmetto, don’t wait.
Watts Dental is ready to help restore your comfort, protect your oral health, and save your smile.
Contact Watts Dental
Watts Dental – St. Pete Office
99 DR. M.L.K Jr St N.
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone: (727) 440-3330
Watts Dental – Palmetto Office
5269 69th St E #105
Palmetto, FL 34221
Phone: (941) 417-0222
Website: https://wattsdentalfl.com
