What counts as a dental emergency
- Severe toothache — especially with throbbing, swelling, or fever
- Knocked-out tooth (avulsion) — time-critical
- Broken or fractured tooth — especially with exposed pulp
- Cracked tooth — pain when chewing
- Lost filling or crown — uncomfortable but usually not urgent
- Soft-tissue injury — cut lip, tongue, cheek
- Facial swelling — possible spreading infection (call immediately)
If a tooth is knocked out
Every minute counts. Pick up the tooth by the crown, never the root. If dirty, gently rinse with milk or saline — never water, do not scrub. Try to place it back in the socket. If you cannot, place it in milk or in your cheek pouch. Get to the office within 30-60 minutes for the best chance of saving it.
How emergencies are handled
As an emergency dentist in Mountain House, Dr. Brar keeps room in the daily schedule for urgent visits. When you call during business hours (Tue-Fri, 8:30 AM-5:30 PM), the front desk triages quickly. Life-threatening swelling is directed to the ER. Same-day appointments are made for true emergencies.
For severe pain at home
Take ibuprofen as directed (works better than acetaminophen for dental pain). Apply a cold compress. Call us. Severe facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or swelling spreading to neck or eyes — go to the nearest ER immediately.
Reviewed by Dr. Amandeep Brar, DDS · UCSF School of Dentistry, 2020 · Member ADA & CDA · Last reviewed: May 2026
This page is general information about dental procedures. It does not replace a personal evaluation. Call (209) 650-1500 for a consultation about your specific situation.