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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Emergency Dentistry in Selkirk
From sudden tooth pain to a broken crown, urgent dental problems need clear next steps. Selkirk residents can call our Port Dover office for guidance.
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Tell us how we can help. Our team will follow up to confirm a time.
Serving patients from Selkirk at our Port Dover office
See every service for Selkirk patientsWhen it cannot wait for a checkup
Know which problems need a call today.
Dental emergencies range from severe toothache and facial swelling to knocked-out teeth, broken teeth and lost crowns. Some need immediate attention, while others can safely wait a day or two with temporary measures. Knowing the difference, and calling for guidance when unsure, helps you get appropriate care without unnecessary stress.
When a problem comes up in Selkirk, the first move is a phone call to our Port Dover office rather than an unplanned drive. The team can ask about your symptoms, discuss urgency and explain what can be offered based on availability, so your trip has a clear purpose.
What counts as urgent
Not every dental issue needs the same timing.
Problems needing prompt dental care
Severe or worsening pain, facial or gum swelling, a knocked-out adult tooth, a tooth pushed out of position, a broken tooth with pain, and bleeding that does not settle with pressure are reasons to call promptly. Signs of infection, such as fever with dental pain, also need attention. The team can advise how soon you should be seen.
Problems that may wait briefly
A small chip without pain, a lost filling without sensitivity or a loose crown you can keep safe may allow a short wait for an appointment. However, these still need treatment. Calling helps the team judge whether waiting is reasonable and what temporary measures you can take in the meantime to stay comfortable.
Making the call
A clear description guides the next step.
Information that helps triage
Describe where the problem is, when it started and whether there is swelling, fever, bleeding or trauma. Mention any medical conditions, medications and allergies. If an injury occurred, explain how and when. The team uses this information to understand urgency and to prepare for your arrival if an appointment is available.
Advice while you wait
Depending on the problem, you may be advised to take over-the-counter pain relief as directed, apply a cold compress, keep a tooth or crown safe, or avoid chewing on one side. Follow the advice given and call back if symptoms change. If things worsen significantly, seek emergency medical care.
At the appointment
The first priority is addressing the urgent issue.
Diagnosis and relief
The dentist examines the area, often takes X-rays and explains the likely cause. Treatment may involve a temporary filling, recementing a crown, starting root canal treatment, draining infection, smoothing a broken edge or extraction. The aim is to relieve pain and stabilize the situation, with clear explanation of what was done.
Planning further care
Many emergencies need follow-up visits to complete treatment, such as finishing a root canal, placing a crown or replacing a temporary filling. The dentist will explain the plan and timing. Completing follow-up care helps prevent the problem from returning and protects the tooth over the longer term.
Reducing future emergencies
Many emergencies start as smaller problems.
Regular care catches problems early
Toothaches from deep decay, cracked teeth under large fillings and abscesses often develop over time. Regular checkups and X-rays can catch these issues before they become urgent. If you notice sensitivity, a rough edge or a change when biting, mention it at your next visit or call before it turns into an emergency.
Protecting teeth from injury
Wear a mouthguard for contact sports and activities with fall risk. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy and using teeth to open packages. If you grind your teeth, ask about a night guard. These steps cannot prevent all emergencies, but they can reduce the chance of cracked teeth and injuries.
Planning your appointment
Calling from Selkirk with an urgent problem.
Phone our Port Dover office before you travel and describe what is happening. The team will discuss urgency, timing and what you can do in the meantime.
Bring your medication list, any broken tooth pieces or loose restorations, and note when symptoms started or the injury occurred.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Emergency dentistry questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe pain, swelling, a knocked-out adult tooth, a displaced tooth, a broken tooth with pain and uncontrolled bleeding are common examples. If you are unsure, call the office to describe your symptoms for guidance.
Should I go to the hospital for a dental problem?
Go to the emergency department for breathing or swallowing difficulty, rapidly spreading swelling, uncontrolled bleeding or serious head injury. Hospitals may not provide definitive dental treatment, so follow up with a dentist afterward.
Can I be seen the same day?
It depends on availability and clinical need. Call as early as possible and describe your symptoms. The team will discuss the next appropriate appointment and what you can do while you wait.
What should I do if my crown falls off?
Keep the crown safe and call the office. Avoid chewing on that side. If the tooth is sensitive, avoid hot and cold foods. The dentist will check whether the crown can be recemented.
Will antibiotics fix my toothache?
Antibiotics may be used for certain infections but do not treat the cause of most toothaches. Dental treatment is usually needed. The dentist will explain whether medication is appropriate for you.
Ways urgent care is arranged
Dental Emergencies →Emergency Dental Exams →
An emergency dental exam focuses on one urgent problem such as pain, swelling or a damaged tooth. Selkirk patients can call our Port Dover office first.
Same-Day Emergency Appointments →
Need urgent dental care today? Selkirk patients should call our Port Dover office early. Same-day visits depend on availability and the nature of the problem.