Dental emergencies do not adhere to a schedule. Whether it is a knocked-out tooth, toothache, or broken crown, early treatment can mean the difference between saving or losing a tooth. If you’re in Sherman Oaks and find yourself faced with a dental emergency, this guide will help walk you through what you experience, along with how an emergency dental clinic can help you recover quickly and safely.
Recognizing a Dental Emergency
Not all dental problems require immediate care, but the following conditions typically call for emergency dental services:
| Dental Issue | Description | Urgency Level |
| Knocked-out tooth | The tooth is completely out of the socket due to trauma | Immediate: Best results if treated within 30 minutes |
| Severe toothache | Persistent pain possibly due to infection or decay | High: May require root canal or extraction |
| Chipped/Broken tooth | May cause sharp pain or injury to the tongue/cheek | Moderate – Can often be smoothed or restored |
| Dental abscess | Swollen, pus-filled infection at tooth root | Critical – Risk of spreading infection |
| Lost filling or crown | Exposed tooth structure can lead to further damage | Moderate: Needs replacement ASAP |
| Object stuck between teeth | Can cause pain or gum damage | Low to Moderate: If flossing doesn’t help, seek help |
What to Do Before You Reach the Emergency Dentist
- Tooth knocked out: Keep it moist. Put it into milk or directly in the socket, if you can. Avoid touching the root.
- Toothache: Wash with warm water. Floss smoothly to get rid of the junk. Do not put the aspirin directly on the gums.
- Broken tooth: Clean the mouth with warm water. Apply a cold compress to minimize the swelling.
- Abscess: Clean with a tepid salt water rinse. Do not try to squeeze or drain it yourself.
- Lost filling or crown: Cover with sugarless gum or dental cement (available at the drugstore).
If you see swelling, a high fever, or are having difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to the ER near you. This could be a sign of a more significant, life-threatening infection.
How Our Emergency Dental Clinic in Sherman Oaks Can Help
Our experienced team offers compassionate, fast-response emergency dental services tailored to your needs. We use advanced diagnostic tools to assess the issue and provide relief as quickly and safely as possible. Whether you’re a walk-in or calling ahead, your comfort and care are our priorities.
When Should You Visit an Emergency Dental Clinic?
Many people delay care, hoping the issue resolves on its own. But this often leads to complications. Visit an emergency dentist immediately if you notice:
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop after 10 minutes
- Pain that worsens or spreads
- Loose or severely damaged teeth
- Swelling in the jaw, face, or neck
- Signs of infection (fever, pus, foul taste)
Insurance and IEHP Coverage
Some emergency dental care might be covered with California Medicaid (Medi-Cal) plans like IEHP. Be sure to always verify with your provider or dental insurance specialist for the most accurate information. For available options, our office staff can assist you.
Summing Up
Don’t leave your oral health to chance. Don’t disregard pain or put off care. When treated early, complications can be avoided, and teeth can be saved. If you’re local to Sherman Oaks and need urgent assistance, our emergency dental clinic can assist you.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical, dental, legal, or insurance advice. Please consult a licensed dental provider for personalized care. For insurance-specific inquiries, including IEHP, consult directly with your plan representative or a dental insurance specialist.