Healthy Teeth

Quick Response Emergency Dentist in Charlotte, NC: Same-Day Appointments

June 5, 2023
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Posted By: Harlow Dental Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
Tooth Ache

Updated in June of 2026

If you are dealing with a dental emergency right now, call Harlow Dental immediately. We offer same-day emergency appointments at all three of our Charlotte locations and we will do everything we can to get you seen quickly.

What Counts As a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation involving pain, injury, or damage to your teeth, gums, or jaw that needs prompt attention to relieve discomfort or prevent further damage. You do not need to wait until things get worse before you call.

Contact us right away if you are experiencing any of the following:

  • Severe or throbbing tooth pain that won't go away
  • A knocked-out or loosened tooth
  • A cracked or broken tooth
  • A lost or damaged filling or crown
  • Swelling in your jaw, gums, or face
  • Bleeding that won't stop
  • A mouth or facial injury
  • Signs of infection such as fever, swelling, or a bad taste in your mouth
  • Broken dentures that affect your ability to eat or speak

If you are not sure whether your situation counts as an emergency, call us anyway. We would rather help you figure that out over the phone than have you wait at home in pain.

What Should I Do If a Tooth Gets Knocked Out?

Act quickly. A knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved if you can get to a dentist within 30 to 60 minutes, according to the American Association of Endodontists.
While you make your way to our office, follow these steps:

  1. Pick the tooth up by the crown, which is the visible white part. Avoid touching the root.
  2. If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with water. Do not scrub it or use soap.
  3. Try to place the tooth back into the socket if you can. Hold it in place by gently biting down on a clean cloth.
  4. If reinserting isn't possible, store the tooth in a small container of milk or between your cheek and gum to keep it moist.
  5. Call us immediately and head to the nearest Harlow Dental location.

What Should I Do About a Severe Toothache?

Call us as soon as possible. Severe tooth pain is one of the most common dental emergencies and it almost always signals that something needs attention, whether that is a cavity that has reached the nerve, an infection, or a cracked tooth.

While you wait to be seen, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help take the edge off. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum or tooth, as this can irritate the tissue. A cold pack on the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling.

Do not wait out a toothache hoping it will go away on its own. Dental infections can spread quickly and become more serious if left untreated.

Can Dental Emergencies Be Prevented?

Many dental emergencies can be reduced with regular preventive care. Keeping up with your routine exams and cleanings allows Dr. Harlow to catch small problems like early decay or weakened teeth before they become urgent. Wearing a custom mouthguard during contact sports also significantly lowers the risk of tooth injuries.

That said, accidents happen and not every emergency is preventable. When one does occur, knowing where to call makes all the difference.

Where Can I Find An Emergency Dentist Near Me in Charlotte, NC?

Harlow Dental has three conveniently located offices across Charlotte to serve you quickly when you need us most.

Call the location nearest to you or request an appointment online. We are here to help you feel better as quickly as possible.

Related Services: Emergency Services
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