Emergency Dentistry

Dental emergencies tend to arise at the least convenient times, but knowing where to turn can make the situation easier to bear. Brian Shahangian, DDS, and Bita Shahangian, DDS, are proud to offer emergency dentistry services through Desert Dental in the North Hollywood neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. If you experience an urgent dental need, walk-in visits are available, or you can always reach the office online or by phone.

What is emergency dentistry?

Emergency dentistry focuses on addressing acute dental care needs. These are issues that often arise with little warning and require prompt treatment to avoid considerable discomfort. 

In some cases, emergency dental care makes the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Controlling infection is also an important focus within emergency dentistry. 

At Desert Dental, practitioners bring extensive training and expertise to their roles. This includes experience treating all forms of emergency dental needs, from simple to the most complex. 

Advanced tools like digital X-rays and cone beam CT scanning guide and inform emergency dental care. The ability to “see” all areas of affected tissue, including those beneath the gumline, plays a critical role in correcting problems effectively.

What kinds of needs can be met through emergency dentistry?

Desert Dental is equipped to handle the full scope of emergency dental care needs. Some of the issues that bring people in for a same-day emergency dentistry visit include:

• Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
• Knocked-out (avulsed) teeth
• Severe pain
• Periodontal (gum tissue) infection
• Object lodged between teeth or in gum tissue
• Lacerations to the tongue and other oral tissues

If you need prompt dental care, call the office to see if a same-day visit is available. 

How should I respond in the event of a knocked-out tooth?

The steps you take in the event of a knocked-out tooth can make the difference between saving or losing that tooth. Begin by picking up the tooth carefully, avoiding making contact with the root portion.

If the tooth is covered in debris, rinse it gently under a slow stream of lukewarm water. Try to place the tooth back in its socket or place it in the space between your gums and cheek. This keeps the tooth in a familiar and moist environment. 

You can also place the tooth in a small container covered with lukewarm milk until you get to the office.

Call Desert Dental right away to see if you can come right in. Saving a knocked-out tooth requires prompt action and professional treatment, so don’t delay. Online scheduling is always available for less time-sensitive booking needs.