Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, sudden pain, or swelling. At Hays Dentistry, Dr. William Hays provides prompt, compassionate care when you need it most. You’ll never feel rushed or judged: just supported by a skilled team that delivers responsible, patient-centered solutions with clinical excellence.
Address Urgent Oral Health Concerns
Emergency dentistry focuses on providing immediate care for urgent dental issues that require prompt attention to relieve pain, prevent damage, or save a tooth. This includes problems like severe toothaches, cracked or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, abscesses, and oral injuries. Dr. Hays takes a calm and compassionate approach to addressing urgent dental needs, ensuring you feel heard, safe, and cared for throughout the process. His goal is to restore your comfort as quickly as possible while preserving long-term oral health.
Why You Might Need Emergency Dentistry:
- To relieve a severe or persistent toothache
- To treat a knocked-out or loose tooth
- To manage swelling, infection, or dental abscess
- To repair a cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
- To stop bleeding from the gums or mouth
- To remove an object lodged between teeth
- To address trauma from an accident or fall
- To replace a lost or damaged dental crown or filling
Common Examples of Dental Emergencies
Severe Toothache
A persistent or throbbing toothache can often signal deep decay, a damaged nerve, or a serious infection such as an abscess. Dr. Hays begins by identifying the exact source of the pain using digital imaging. Depending on the cause, treatment may involve a filling, root canal, or tooth extraction. The goal is to relieve pain while preventing further damage or complications.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If you act quickly, ideally within an hour, Dr. Hays may be able to save the tooth. He’ll clean it, assess the socket, and reinsert the tooth if conditions allow. A splint may be used to stabilize it during healing. You’ll also receive guidance on protecting the area and ensuring the tooth reattaches properly.
Cracked or Broken Tooth
A cracked or broken tooth can result from biting down on hard foods, trauma, or tooth decay. Dr. Hays will examine the extent of the damage using X-rays and determine the best approach, whether it’s bonding, a crown, or extraction. The goal is to protect the exposed tooth structure, eliminate discomfort, and restore strength and function as quickly as possible.
Dental Abscess
An abscess is a dangerous, pus-filled infection that often causes swelling, severe pain, and sometimes fever or difficulty swallowing. Without treatment, it can spread quickly to surrounding tissues. Dr. Hays will first drain the abscess and thoroughly disinfect the area. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve a root canal or even complete tooth removal.
Lost Filling or Crown
When a filling or crown falls out, it exposes the tooth’s inner layers, which can lead to heightened sensitivity, pain, or decay. Dr. Hays will evaluate the area to determine if the tooth is still structurally sound. If so, he’ll replace the restoration, either temporarily or permanently. If further damage has occurred, additional treatment may be necessary to rebuild the tooth.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Cuts, tears, or trauma to your gums, tongue, lips, or inner cheeks can result from accidents, falls, or sports injuries. These wounds may bleed heavily and be quite painful. Dr. Hays will gently clean the area, control bleeding, and provide stitches if needed. He’ll also assess the surrounding teeth and bones for hidden injuries and work to minimize the risk of infection.
Schedule Your Consultation With Dr. Hays
Dr. William Hays is committed to delivering a more thoughtful, personalized dental experience rooted in honesty, compassion, and clinical excellence. At Hays Dentistry in Waxhaw, NC, you’ll never be treated like just another appointment, especially when facing an emergency. Dr. Hays takes the time to listen, explain your options clearly, and provide care that prioritizes your comfort and long-term oral health. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, schedule your consultation with Dr. Hays today for prompt, responsible dental care.
