Emergency Dentist in Shelbyville – What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Dental emergencies can happen at any time, causing severe pain and anxiety. At Blue River Dental in Shelbyville, we understand that quick action is crucial when you're experiencing a dental crisis. Our team of board-certified dentists, Dr. Carrie Pumphrey and Dr. Betsy Crandall, provide prompt emergency dental care with same-day appointments to address your urgent dental needs.

What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency typically involves severe pain, bleeding, or trauma that requires immediate professional attention. Understanding what constitutes a true dental emergency can help you make informed decisions about seeking immediate care.

• Severe Tooth Pain: Intense, persistent pain that may indicate infection or abscess
• Knocked-Out Tooth: Requires immediate attention for the best chance of saving the tooth
• Broken or Cracked Teeth: Especially when accompanied by pain or sharp edges
• Lost Fillings or Crowns: Can expose sensitive tooth structure and require prompt repair
• Dental Abscess: A serious infection that needs immediate treatment

Immediate Steps for Dental Emergencies

When facing a dental emergency, taking the right steps before reaching our office can make a significant difference in the outcome of your treatment. Here's what you should do in common emergency situations:

For a Knocked-Out Tooth:

• Handle with Care: Pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root
• Keep it Moist: Place it in milk or a tooth preservation solution
• Act Quickly: Get to our office within 30 minutes if possible

For Severe Pain or Abscess:

• Rinse: Gently rinse with warm salt water
• Cold Compress: Apply to reduce swelling
• Avoid: Don't place aspirin directly on the affected area

Emergency Services at Blue River Dental

Our Shelbyville practice is equipped with advanced technology to handle various dental emergencies effectively. We offer same-day emergency appointments during our regular business hours from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Thursday.

Our emergency dental services include:

• CEREC Same-Day Crowns: Immediate restoration for broken teeth
• Advanced Imaging: CBCT and digital X-rays for precise diagnosis
• Pain Management: Various sedation options including local anesthesia and laughing gas
• Tooth Extractions: When saving the tooth isn't possible
• Root Canal Therapy: For treating severe infections and saving damaged teeth

Why Choose Blue River Dental for Your Emergency?

Our practice offers several advantages for emergency dental care in Shelbyville and surrounding areas:

• Experienced Team: Two board-certified dentists with extensive emergency care experience
• Modern Technology: State-of-the-art equipment for precise and efficient treatment
• Comfortable Environment: A welcoming atmosphere designed to ease dental anxiety
• Flexible Payment Options: Multiple payment methods and financing solutions available

Preventing Dental Emergencies

While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, many can be prevented through proper oral care and regular dental visits. Here are some preventive measures we recommend:

• Regular Check-ups: Schedule bi-annual examinations and cleanings
• Custom Mouthguards: Protect your teeth during sports activities
• Avoid Hard Foods: Be cautious with ice, hard candy, and similar items
• Address Issues Early: Don't wait for small problems to become emergencies

Schedule Your Emergency Dental Visit

Dental emergencies require prompt attention, and our team at Blue River Dental is ready to help. We serve patients throughout Shelbyville and surrounding communities including Flat Rock, Rushville, Morristown, and Waldron. Our modern facility on North Riley Highway is equipped to handle your dental emergency with care and expertise.

Don't wait if you're experiencing dental pain or trauma. Contact our office immediately for emergency dental care. We're committed to providing quick, effective relief while ensuring your comfort throughout your emergency treatment.