Most dental emergencies belong at the dentist, not the ER
The ER is amazing at a lot of things. Fixing teeth usually isn't one of them. Most hospitals can ease the pain, send you home, and tell you to see a dentist, so you end up with a hefty bill and a second appointment. Skip the detour and come straight to Swish. Some common reasons Houston residents seek our care include:
Severe or throbbing tooth pain
A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth
A knocked-out tooth
A lost filling or crown
Swollen gums, a bump on the gum, or a suspected abscess
Bleeding after a fall or sports injury
Wisdom tooth pain
Broken dentures
Head to the ER instead if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling that spreads toward your eye or neck, bleeding that won't stop, or a possible broken jaw.
What you do before you get here can help save your tooth
A few minutes of the right first aid makes a real difference. Here's what to do on the way to an emergency dentist in Houston:
Knocked-out tooth
Pick it up by the top (the crown), not the root. Rinse it gently without scrubbing. Try to place it back in the socket, or keep it in a cup of milk. Get to a dentist within the hour for the best chance of saving it.
Toothache
Rinse with warm salt water and floss gently around the tooth. An over-the-counter pain reliever can help, but never put aspirin directly on your gums.
Chipped or broken tooth
Save any pieces, rinse your mouth with warm water, and hold a cold compress on your cheek to keep swelling down.
Lost crown or filling
Hang on to the crown and chew on the other side. Skip the super glue (we promise, it makes the fix harder).
Swelling or abscess
Rinse with warm salt water and don't try to pop anything. If you have a fever or the swelling is spreading, call us right away.
Common dental emergencies we treat in Houston
Our goal is to get you back to feeling your best as quickly as possible. Depending on the severity of your case this might include immediate mitigation or providing temporary pain relief and scheduling you for another appointment. Below you can find some of the common emergencies our dentists treat across our studios in Houston.
Tooth Pain or Pressure
If you're experiencing intense tooth pain or pressure our team will diagnose the issue and then decide what the best treatment plan for your case is. Our solutions are designed to relieve your discomfort and address the underlying cause, whether that means a filling, a root canal, or something simpler.
Bleeding or Swelling Gums
Uncontrolled bleeding or sudden swelling of the gums can be a sign of gingivitis or other serious concerns. Visit us for urgent care to address these concerns promptly. Our Houston team is equipped to manage emergent situations and prevent further complications.
Broken, Chipped, or Lost Tooth
Did you break or lose a tooth unexpectedly? Our same-day dental appointments ensure your smile is repaired swiftly and beautifully, using state-of-the-art techniques and materials to restore both function and aesthetics seamlessly. Depending on the damage, that might mean bonding, a custom crown, or a longer-term fix like a dental implant. If a tooth has been knocked out completely, keep it in milk and call your nearest Houston studio right away.
Sports Related Incidents
Accidents during sports can lead to dental injuries that require immediate attention. Seek our specialized care to ensure your teeth are adequately treated, employing treatments to address sports-related dental trauma effectively. Our Houston Heights and Kirby studios see plenty of weekend warriors, so you're in good company.
Loose Filling or Crown
A loose filling or crown can cause discomfort and expose your tooth to potential damage. Our experienced team and modern technology can fix this for you immediately, providing quick and precise restoration to protect your tooth and maintain your oral health. Learn more about our restorative dentistry options.
Infection or Abscess
Suspect a dental infection or abscess? Our emergency dental services include addressing conditions promptly, combining expert diagnosis and targeted treatments to safeguard your oral health and prevent the spread of infection. Treatment may involve a root canal or extraction, and sedation is available if you're feeling anxious about it.
Your Houston emergency visit takes about an hour
We keep things simple so you're not stuck wondering what's next:
1. Tell us what's going on. We'll get you checked in fast and comfortable in the chair.
2. Quick exam and digital X-rays.These show us exactly what's happening.
3. A clear diagnosis.No jargon, just a straight answer.
4. Costs up front. You'll know your options and your price before we start anything.
Treatment. If we can fix it within the hour, we will. Bigger cases may need a temporary fix today and a follow-up visit.
Houston patients love Swish
Over 10,000 5-star reviews and counting...
I found Swish Dental while seeking emergency dental services, because I experienced a sharp, stabbing pain in the area of my filling. After checking in and sitting down, I knew they would be my new dentist. I love Swish for how they make my smile look and feel.
Sara B.
I'm so happy I found Swish! Making an appointment is super easy and the staff are so sweet! I've had cleanings, teeth whitening and old fillings replaced here, and they even fit me in same day for tooth pain!
Elena F.
I needed a new dentist and was having terrible mouth pain. I was able to get an appointment for the very next day. It was easy filling out paperwork, and they got two of my procedures done on the SAME DAY! I’ve been recommending this place and will continue to!
Mackenzie P.
