Dental emergencies can happen at any age, and they rarely wait for a convenient moment. A child can chip a tooth on the playground, a teen might lose a filling during lunch, or an adult could wake up with sudden tooth pain.

At Riverside Dental Center, we understand how stressful these situations can be for families. That’s why we make emergency dental care in Riverside a priority—so you can get help as soon as possible.

Knowing the most common dental emergencies for children, teens, and adults—and what to do before you arrive—can help keep your family’s smiles safe.

What Is a Dental Emergency?

Not every toothache is an emergency. But there are times when waiting can make things worse. If there’s pain, swelling, trauma, or a risk of infection, it’s time to call a Riverside emergency dentist for guidance and the soonest available appointment.

1. Knocked-Out Tooth (Kids & Teens)

Active kids and teens often participate in sports, play outdoors, or roughhouse with friends. A fall, ball, or elbow can easily knock out a tooth.

What to do until you can be seen:

• Hold the tooth by the crown (the top part), not the root.
• Rinse gently with water if dirty, but do not scrub.
• Place the tooth back in the socket if possible, or store it in milk or saliva.
• Call our Riverside dental team right away so we can prepare to help you at the earliest possible time.

Acting quickly offers the best chance of saving the tooth.

2. Severe Toothache (All Ages)

A toothache that keeps a child or adult awake is more than an inconvenience—it could be a sign of decay, infection, or injury.

What to do until you can be seen:

• Rinse the mouth with warm salt water to reduce bacteria.
• Use a child-safe or adult pain reliever as directed.
• Avoid chewing on the affected side.
• Contact Riverside Dental Center promptly for advice and the soonest available emergency visit.

3. Chipped or Broken Teeth

A chipped tooth from biting something hard or a broken tooth from an accident needs timely care—especially if it’s painful or leaves sharp edges.

What to do until you can be seen:

• Rinse with warm water to clean the area.
• If there’s bleeding, apply gentle pressure with gauze.
• Save any broken pieces of the tooth.
• Call our Riverside emergency dentist to arrange the earliest appointment.

4. Lost Fillings or Crowns (Teens & Adults)

Older dental work can sometimes loosen or fall out, leaving a tooth exposed and sensitive.

What to do until you can be seen:

• Avoid chewing on that side of the mouth.
• Keep the crown or filling to bring to the appointment.
• Schedule a visit with our Riverside dental office as soon as possible to restore the tooth.

5. Swelling or Abscess

Swelling of the gums, face, or jaw can indicate a dental abscess—a serious infection that requires urgent care.

What to do until you can be seen:

• Rinse the mouth with warm salt water.
• Do not attempt to drain the abscess yourself.
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if necessary.
• Call Riverside Dental Center right away for instructions and the earliest appointment.

6. Mouth Injuries and Soft Tissue Cuts

Cuts to the lips, cheeks, or tongue can bleed heavily, especially in young children.

What to do until you can be seen:

• Rinse gently with warm water.
• Apply a clean cloth or gauze with light pressure to stop bleeding.
• If bleeding is severe or doesn’t stop after 10 minutes, seek immediate medical attention.
• For dental injuries, contact our Riverside dental team to arrange follow-up care.

Helping Kids Stay Calm in an Emergency

Dental emergencies can be frightening for children. Staying calm yourself will help reassure them. Explain that the dentist will help fix the problem and make them comfortable again.

When you call our Riverside emergency dentist, we can also guide you on how to comfort your child and prepare them for their visit.

Why Timely Care Matters for Families

Addressing dental emergencies quickly can:

• Prevent permanent damage.
• Reduce the risk of infection.
• Save you from more extensive treatment later.

At Riverside Dental Center, we offer priority scheduling for emergency dental needs so your family can get the care you need as soon as possible.

Your Family’s Emergency Dentist in Riverside

Dental emergencies don’t have to feel overwhelming. With a clear plan and a trusted dental team, you can protect your family’s smiles and health.

If your child, teen, or another family member experiences any of these emergencies, call us right away so we can advise you on the best next steps and arrange the earliest available appointment.

📞 Call Riverside Dental Center at (951) 353-8454
📅 Request your appointment online

Your family’s smiles are important to us—let us help keep them healthy, safe, and pain-free.