How can we help you?
At Carrollwood Village Dental, patient education is a priority. The more you understand about your oral health, the better equipped you are to make decisions about your care. Dr. Mancuso takes time at every appointment to answer questions and make sure you're clear on what's going on and what he recommends before any treatment begins.
We've compiled answers to some of the questions we hear most often. If you don't find what you're looking for, call us directly. If you're wondering about it, chances are others are too.
Emergency Dentistry
Most dental emergencies revolve around toothaches. Tooth root infections commonly cause these. The best way to treat this infection is with root canal therapy in Tampa, FL.
However, as you await your appointment, there are measures you can take to ease the pain and swelling.
Easing Toothache Pain
Sometimes, rinsing with warm salt water can mitigate a bit of the infection and provide temporary relief. Some patients are medically able to take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or Tylenol. You can also try placing a periodic ice pack to numb the pain and ease swelling.
A team member may offer more customized tips based on your symptoms and the reason for your dental pain. Always call our dental office at the first signs of an emergency, and never substitute at-home pain tips for in-office dental care!
To lower your risk for toothaches from infection, we encourage you to visit our dental office twice daily for checkups and teeth cleanings. Also, be sure to brush and floss at least twice daily. If you notice tooth sensitivity or other oral health changes, contact your emergency dentist in Tampa, FL.
Dental Emergency Treatment Near Me
If you have a toothache or other oral health concern, please get in touch with a member of our dental team today.
A true dental emergency is considered an urgent situation requiring immediate treatment to save a tooth, address severe pain, or stop bleeding. Knowing the difference between true emergencies and issues that can wait helps you respond appropriately.
Urgent Dental Emergencies: Call Us Right Away
- Knocked-out permanent tooth—Time-sensitive; the tooth may be saved if treated within an hour
- Facial or jaw swelling — Especially with fever, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems
- Abscess or serious infection — Visible swelling, pus, or severe throbbing pain
- Trauma to the jaw - Suspected broken or dislocated jaw
- Severe, persistent pain - Intense toothache that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication
Urgent But Not an Emergency
- Lost fillings or crowns
- Cracked or chipped teeth without severe pain
- Moderate toothache
- Dull, occasional toothache
- Object stuck between teeth that won't come out
- Broken dentures or partial dentures
Can Wait for a Regular Appointment
- Minor tooth sensitivity
- Small chips with no discomfort
- Food consistently gets caught in one spot
When in doubt, call Carrollwood Village Dental for emergency dental care in Tampa, FL. Our team can assess your situation over the phone and determine how quickly we need to see you.
For true medical emergencies involving difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or jaw trauma, visit an emergency room first, then follow up with your dentist.
Tooth pain is an emergency if it's severe, persistent, or you experience swelling, fever, or other concerning symptoms. If your tooth pain doesn't resolve with over-the-counter medication, or you can't sleep, eat, or function normally, you need to see an emergency dentist in Tampa, FL right away.
Signs of a Dental Emergency
At Carrollwood Village Dental, we urge you to call us immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Severe, throbbing pain that won't subside
- Face, jaw, or gum swelling
- Fever or difficulty swallowing
- A knocked-out or severely broken tooth
- Visible pus or abscess
- Trauma to your mouth
These symptoms can indicate infection, which can spread quickly and become dangerous without treatment.
When You Can Wait to See Your Dentist
Mild to moderate sensitivity to hot or cold foods, minor discomfort when chewing, or a dull ache that comes and goes typically don't require emergency care. While you shouldn’t ignore these symptoms, you can schedule a regular appointment if they worsen.
Small chips or cracks without tooth pain can also wait, though you should call to schedule an appointment soon to prevent further damage.
Call Us If You’re Unsure
It’s always better to call your dentist and learn that your situation is not an urgent emergency than to suffer in pain. You are always welcome to call Carrollwood Village Dental at (813) 961-2200 so we can evaluate your symptoms over the phone and help you decide whether you need an emergency appointment.