Emergency Dentist
What to expect when you call, and how we prioritize.
Start hereUrgent, or can it wait?
When is a dental problem an emergency?
A dental emergency is anything that threatens a tooth or your health if it waits: a knocked-out or broken tooth, swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or severe worsening pain. Not sure which side you're on? Call (770) 954-1180 and describe it. We'll tell you honestly how urgent it sounds.
Need care now?
Call the McDonough office first.
Office hours are Monday to Thursday, 8 AM to 5 PM. Describe what is happening and the team will help you find the soonest visit. Urgent visits start with a limited exam and X-rays to find the cause.
When minutes actually matter.
A knocked-out permanent tooth is the clearest emergency: handle it by the crown, place it gently back in the socket if you can or keep it in milk, and call immediately. Minutes matter. A broken tooth with an exposed nerve, an abscess with swelling, bleeding that won't stop, and pain that's climbing by the hour all deserve a same-day call.
The good news? Plenty of problems feel urgent but can safely wait a day or two: a small chip with no pain, a lost filling that isn't sensitive, food stuck where floss can reach, or mild soreness after a long day. Taking a moment to breathe and call is almost always better than guessing. Our emergency page covers what happens when you reach us.
How urgent is it
Which bucket is yours?
Call right now
A knocked-out or badly broken tooth, facial or gum swelling, an abscess, bleeding that doesn't stop with pressure, or pain that's rapidly getting worse.
Next day or two
Small chips without pain, a lost filling or crown that isn't sensitive, mild soreness, or a broken wire or appliance you can cover with wax.
Emergency room first
Swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, a possible jaw fracture, deep facial cuts, or any injury with loss of consciousness. Hospital first, dentist after.
Costs, even on a hard day.
Emergency visits are priced by what the situation needs: an exam and X-ray to find the cause, plus whatever stabilizes it. Even on a rough day, you approve costs before treatment, and we file out-of-network claims as a courtesy. Payment options here.
Quick answers for stressful moments.
What should I do with a knocked-out tooth?
Pick it up by the crown, not the root. Rinse gently if it's dirty, then place it back in the socket if you can, or keep it in milk. Call immediately; the first hour matters most for saving it.
The office is closed. What now?
Call and leave a message so we can respond when we reopen. For swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, or serious trauma, go to the emergency room first; those can't wait for office hours.
Is a lost crown an emergency?
Usually not the same-day kind, unless the tooth hurts. Hang on to the crown, keep the area clean, avoid chewing on that side, and call for the next opening so it can be recemented or remade.
Do you actually see emergencies the same day?
Sometimes, yes. Call as early as you can and we'll do everything we honestly can. And even when same-day is full, we'll tell you exactly how to stay comfortable until your visit.
Can't tell if it can wait?
Call (770) 954-1180 and describe it. We'll help you sort out the next step.