Dental emergencies often happen when we least expect them-and they can be stressful, painful, and confusing. Whether you’re experiencing a sudden toothache, cracked tooth, or knocked-out tooth, it’s important to act quickly. For residents of Orem, Utah, knowing how to respond before reaching your dentist can help reduce pain, protect your oral health, and prevent complications.

At Canyon Gate Dental, we see a wide range of emergency cases. In this guide, we’re breaking down the five most common dental emergencies in Orem and what you can do immediately-plus how professional care helps restore your smile effectively and affordably.

1. Toothaches That Won’t Go Away

Toothaches are one of the most common reasons patients seek emergency dental care in Orem. While minor discomfort may come and go, persistent or severe tooth pain is often a sign of decay, infection, or nerve damage.

How to Handle It:

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
• Floss gently to remove trapped food
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever (avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth)
• Apply a cold compress if swelling is present

A toothache may seem small, but if left untreated, it can develop into a more serious condition.
Schedule an exam immediately to prevent further damage and find lasting relief.

2. Cracked or Broken Teeth

Cracked teeth can result from biting hard foods, facial injuries, or even existing dental work wearing down. You may feel a sharp pain when biting, or you may see a visible chip.

How to Handle It:

• Rinse your mouth with water to keep the area clean
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
• Save any broken pieces and bring them to your appointment
• Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth

Our team provides fast, effective repairs with tooth-colored restorations that preserve both function and aesthetics.

3. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth)

This is one of the most urgent dental emergencies we see in Orem. If a permanent tooth is knocked out, time is critical-receiving care within 30-60 minutes offers the best chance of saving the tooth.

How to Handle It:

• Pick the tooth up by the crown (not the root)
• Rinse it gently with water if dirty-do not scrub
• Try placing it back into the socket or store it in milk or saliva
• Get to an emergency dentist immediately

Emergency dental services in Orem can often re-implant the tooth if treatment is received promptly.
Don’t delay-call us right away.

4. Lost Fillings or Crowns

If a filling or crown falls out, the exposed tooth can become extremely sensitive and vulnerable to damage or decay. This common issue often happens with aging dental work or biting something hard.

How to Handle It:

• Keep the crown (if you still have it) and bring it with you
• Avoid chewing on the exposed tooth
• Use dental cement or wax as a temporary cover if needed
• Rinse with warm salt water to keep the area clean

We can replace or repair damaged restorations quickly with durable, natural-looking materials like metal-free fillings or crowns.

5. Abscesses or Gum Infections

A dental abscess is a serious infection that can form at the root of a tooth or in the gums. Symptoms include swelling, pus, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth. This condition requires urgent care to prevent the infection from spreading.

How to Handle It:

• Rinse with warm salt water to relieve pain
• Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
• Do not pop or drain the abscess on your own
• Call your dentist immediately for treatment

Our Orem dental team offers gentle, expert care to address infections, relieve pain, and restore your oral health safely.

Why Timely Emergency Dental Care Matters

Ignoring a dental emergency increases your risk of serious infection, permanent damage, or even tooth loss. At Canyon Gate Dental, we offer same-day emergency appointments in Orem and work to make care affordable with financing options and insurance-friendly plans.

From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll receive prompt, personalized treatment with a focus on comfort and long-term results.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What qualifies as a dental emergency?
A: Severe pain, bleeding, swelling, infection, knocked-out teeth, and broken restorations all qualify as emergencies.

Q: Can I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
A: Hospitals can offer pain relief, but they usually can’t treat the underlying dental issue. It’s best to contact an emergency dentist in Orem.

Q: How quickly should I act after a tooth is knocked out?
A: You should seek treatment within 30-60 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.

Q: What if I don’t have dental insurance?
A: We offer affordable emergency dental care with flexible payment plans for uninsured patients.

Q: How can I prevent future dental emergencies?
A: Maintain regular checkups, practice good oral hygiene, avoid using teeth as tools, and wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth or play sports.

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