Emergency Dentist in Beachwood, OH- What Counts as an Emergency and What to Do Now
f you’re in pain, the goal is simple: get safe relief quickly and prevent the problem from getting worse. Elite Dentistry Center provides emergency dental guidance and scheduling options for patients in Beachwood, OH and nearby communities. Call (216) 464-3200 if you have severe tooth pain, swelling, or a dental injury.
When to Call an Emergency Dentist
Call our office if you have any of the following:
Severe tooth pain that won’t stop
Swelling of the gums, face, or jaw
A broken or cracked tooth
A lost filling or crown with pain/sensitivity
Signs of infection (pressure, bad taste, pus, fever)
If you have trouble breathing, difficulty swallowing, or rapidly worsening facial swelling, seek immediate medical care.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is anything that involves intense pain, swelling, infection concerns, trauma, or uncontrolled bleeding. Some issues can wait a few days. Others should be evaluated as soon as possible because delaying care increases the risk of complications.
Common dental emergencies include:
Severe toothache or pressure
Swelling or infection concerns
Broken, cracked, or chipped teeth (especially with pain)
Knocked-out tooth
Lost crowns or fillings
Dental trauma from a fall or sports injury
Signs You Should Call Today
Call the office right away if you have:
Pain that keeps you awake or is getting worse
Swelling in the gums, cheek, or jaw
Fever with dental pain
A bad taste or odor that doesn’t go away
Pain when biting that feels sharp or sudden
A cracked tooth after chewing something hard
These can point to nerve inflammation, a crack, or infection that won’t resolve on its own.
When You Should Go to the ER (Not the Dentist)
Dentists treat the source of dental problems, but you should seek medical care immediately if you have:
Trouble breathing or swallowing
Rapidly worsening facial swelling
High fever with significant swelling
Severe facial trauma or suspected jaw fracture
Uncontrolled bleeding
If you’re unsure, call and we’ll help guide you to the safest next step.
What to Do Before Your Emergency Dental Visit
These steps can help reduce discomfort until you’re seen.
For Severe Tooth Pain
Rinse gently with warm salt water
Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed
Avoid chewing on the painful side
Do not place aspirin directly on the tooth or gums. It can burn the tissue.
For Swelling
Use a cold compress (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off)
Call for guidance—swelling can indicate infection
For a Broken Tooth
Save any fragments
Rinse with warm water
Cover sharp edges with dental wax if available
Avoid hard foods and chewing on that side
For a Knocked-Out Tooth
Handle the tooth by the crown (not the root)
Rinse gently with water (do not scrub)
If possible, place it back in the socket
If not, store it in milk and call immediately
Time matters.
What Happens at an Emergency Dental Appointment?
Emergency visits focus on two things: diagnosis and stabilization.
Depending on your symptoms, your visit may include:
A focused exam and evaluation
Digital X-rays if needed
Steps to relieve pain and reduce inflammation
A clear plan for next steps (repair, crown, root canal evaluation, or extraction if necessary)
You’ll leave knowing what the issue is, what options exist, and what to do next.
Cost, Insurance, and Payment
Emergency care varies based on the cause and the treatment needed. If you have PPO dental insurance, we can help you understand how benefits may apply. If insurance doesn’t cover everything, payment options may be available. The key is diagnosing the problem early so treatment stays simpler whenever possible.
Need an Emergency Dentist in Beachwood, OH?
If you have severe tooth pain, swelling, or dental trauma, call Elite Dentistry Center at (216) 464-3200 for guidance and scheduling options.
Address: 24300 Chagrin Blvd., Suite 304, Beachwood, OH 44122
Hours: Mon–Fri: 9am–5pm
FAQ
What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe pain, swelling, infection concerns, trauma, or uncontrolled bleeding are dental emergencies and should be evaluated quickly.
Should I go to urgent care or a dentist for tooth pain?
Urgent care can help with general symptoms, but a dentist treats the cause of tooth pain. If you have swelling or severe pain, call a dentist first for guidance.
Is swelling from a tooth dangerous?
Swelling can be a sign of infection and can worsen. Call for evaluation—especially if swelling is spreading or you have fever.
What should I do if my crown fell off?
Keep the crown, avoid chewing on that side, and call for an exam. Do not use household glue.
Can a broken tooth wait?
If there’s pain, sharp edges, or a large break, call soon. Cracks can spread and become more complicated.
What if I have trouble breathing with facial swelling?
That’s a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical care.