Emergency Dentist in Taos, NM
A dental emergency is a situation that requires prompt attention from a dental professional. At Northern New Mexico Dental Center, we understand that you cannot always plan when you will need our care. If you experience a dental emergency, we encourage you to contact us at 575-751-9661 as soon as possible. Our team will schedule you to meet with our dentists as soon as we are able so you can receive the emergency dental care and get your oral health and smile back on track.
Common Dental Emergencies
Our dentists and team provide care for several types of dental emergencies in Taos, NM, including:
- Severe, lasting toothaches or other types of tooth pain
- A lost dental restoration, such as a lost filling or crown
- Damage to the soft tissues of the mouth, including the tongue, cheeks, lips and gums
- A cracked or fractured tooth
- A chipped or broken tooth
- A partially or fully knocked-out tooth
What to Do During a Dental Emergency
If you are experiencing any kind of dental emergency listed above, please call our office immediately. Dr. Kellie Harris, Dr. Kayci Harris and our team are committed to helping you protect your health and preserve your smile. Our team will walk you through first-aid steps you can take at home to manage pain and minimize damage while you wait for your appointment. In many cases, prompt action can make the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
If you have knocked out a tooth, keep it moist and avoid touching the root. You may place it back in the socket or in a container of milk. If a dental restoration has fallen out, bring it with you to the office. For soft tissue injuries, apply clean gauze and light pressure to slow bleeding. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses may also help relieve discomfort and reduce swelling.
When to Visit the Emergency Room First
Some dental emergencies also involve trauma to the head or neck. If you have suffered an injury beyond your mouth — such as a concussion, a deep laceration or severe facial swelling — you should call 911, go to the emergency room or contact your medical doctor before visiting our emergency dentists in Taos, NM. Your safety is our top priority, and emergency medical professionals are best equipped to handle complex trauma.
Emergency Dental Care is Just a Call Away
Whether you are dealing with a painful toothache, a broken crown or an unexpected injury, we are here to help. Our dental team is experienced in handling urgent situations with care and compassion. Do not wait to seek the treatment you need. Call or visit our office today at 575-751-9661 to learn more about our emergency dentistry services in Taos, NM.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dentistry
What types of issues require emergency dental care?
Emergency dental care addresses sudden problems that cannot wait for a routine visit. These may include severe oral infections, bleeding that does not stop, significant swelling or injuries affecting your teeth or jaw. Immediate treatment can prevent complications and protect your long-term oral and overall health.
How quickly can I be seen during a dental emergency?
We prioritize emergency cases and strive to see patients the same day whenever possible. Our scheduling team will assess your situation and fit you into the earliest available appointment. Prompt care is essential to manage pain, avoid infection and increase the likelihood of saving your natural tooth.
Is it safe to manage dental pain at home before my appointment?
Mild pain can often be temporarily relieved using cold compresses, rinsing with salt water or taking over-the-counter pain relievers as directed. However, these methods do not treat the root cause. Always follow up with a dental professional to ensure proper evaluation and treatment of your condition.
Can a dental emergency lead to more serious problems?
Yes, delaying treatment can cause infections to spread, increase pain or even result in permanent damage to teeth or gums. In rare cases, untreated dental infections can affect other parts of the body. Timely care is essential for maintaining your oral health and preventing serious complications.
What areas do you serve?
We provide emergency dentistry in Taos, New Mexico, and to patients in the surrounding areas, including Angel Fire, Arroyo Seco, Mora, Questa and Ranchos de Taos. Contact us as soon as possible to schedule your emergency visit with our experienced dentists and receive the care you need!