Updated in September of 2026
As a Centennial dentist, I understand how scary and confusing it can be when you wake up in the middle of the night with a toothache or your child gets hit in the mouth during a ball game and gets a tooth knocked out. That’s why my dental office provides emergency dental services when the unexpected happens.
So, what are some of the most common dental emergencies I see in Centennial? Keep reading to learn more.
5 Common Dental Emergencies
These are the dental emergencies I see most often in my Centennial dental office:
- Toothache—Any time you have dental pain, it isn’t a good sign. You may have tooth decay or a dental infection, so it’s best to contact my dental office immediately. I can diagnose the situation, alleviate your pain, and create a treatment plan for your dental issues.
- Chipped or broken tooth—Whether you bit down on something too hard or sustained an injury, a chipped or broken tooth is more susceptible to infection and can be painful. It’s best to rinse your mouth with warm water and contact me for next steps.
- Knocked-out tooth—Time is of the essence if your tooth has been completely knocked out. I recommend calling my dental office immediately if this happens. Don’t touch your tooth by the roots; try to place it back in its socket if you can. If that doesn’t work, store it in your cheek or a glass of milk until you arrive for your appointment.
- Lost or broken restoration—If you lose a filling or crown, call my dental office for an emergency appointment for timely care. Doing so can help you avoid further damage or infection. You can place a piece of sugarless gum on the affected area until you reach my dental office.
- Infection—Any infection in your mouth can spread to your other teeth, your gums, or the rest of your body. So, if you have a painful, swollen spot in your mouth, rinse it with warm water and contact my dental office for an appointment.
How Do I Know I Need an Emergency Dentist in Centennial, CO?
Not every dental problem needs same-day care, but some signs mean you should call an emergency dentist right away. These include severe pain that will not go away, swelling in your face or gums, a knocked-out or badly broken tooth, or bleeding that will not stop. If you notice any of these, do not wait for your next regular checkup; call my office as soon as you can.
Should I Go to the Emergency Room or an Emergency Dentist?
For most dental problems, you should call an emergency dentist instead of going to the ER. Hospital emergency rooms can treat pain and prescribe antibiotics, but they usually cannot fix a broken tooth, replace a lost filling, or save a knocked-out tooth. According to the American Dental Association, most dentists set aside time in their schedule specifically for emergency patients, so calling your dentist first is often faster and gets you the actual repair you need.
The one exception is a true medical emergency, like a broken jaw, uncontrolled bleeding, or trouble breathing or swallowing. In those cases, go to the emergency room right away.
Looking for Emergency Dental Care in Centennial or Greenwood Village?
If you or a loved one faces a dental emergency, call your dentist near me in Centennial. My team and I will provide prompt care to address your urgent needs and help relieve your pain.
For immediate assistance with emergency dental care in Centennial, CO, reach out to us at (303) 795-0066 to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.