Emergency Dentist in St. Petersburg, FL

When to Call for a Dental Emergency

A dental emergency is any situation that causes severe pain, bleeding, infection, or damage to your teeth or gums. If you’re unsure whether your issue qualifies as an emergency, err on the side of caution—call us right away at (727) 201-8700 for guidance.

Common dental emergencies we treat include:

• Severe or persistent toothache
  
• Broken, cracked, or chipped teeth
  
• Knocked-out or loose teeth
  
• Abscesses or oral infections
  
• Swelling of the face or gums
  
• Damaged crowns, bridges, or dentures
  
• Soft tissue injuries (lips, tongue, or cheeks)
  

Our team prioritizes emergency appointments and will do everything possible to see you the same day.

What to Do Before You Get to the Dentist

If a dental emergency occurs, taking the right steps before your visit can help prevent further damage:

• Toothache: Rinse with warm salt water and avoid applying aspirin directly to the tooth.
  
• Knocked-Out Tooth: Handle the tooth by the crown (not the root), gently rinse, and try to reinsert it in the socket. If not possible, keep it moist in milk or saline.
  
• Broken or Chipped Tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water, and save any fragments.
  
• Swelling or Infection: Apply a cold compress to the affected area and contact us immediately.
  

Avoid waiting or self-treating with over-the-counter remedies—prompt professional attention is key to saving your tooth and relieving pain safely.

What to Expect During an Emergency Visit

When you arrive at our St. Petersburg dental office, our priority is to get you comfortable and assess the situation quickly.

Your visit may include:

1. Digital Imaging: We’ll take quick, low-radiation X-rays to identify the problem.
   
2. Diagnosis & Pain Relief: Dr. Knowles will determine the cause of your discomfort and provide immediate relief.
   
3. Treatment Plan: Once you’re stable, we’ll recommend the best course of action to restore your smile—whether it’s a filling, crown, root canal, or another procedure.
   

We also offer same-day CEREC® crowns and other advanced restorative options, allowing many emergency issues to be treated in a single visit.

Why Choose Waterfront District Dental for Emergency Care

• Same-Day Appointments: We reserve time each day for emergency visits.
  
• Advanced Technology: Digital X-rays, 3D CBCT imaging, and CEREC® same-day restorations.
  
• Comprehensive Treatment Options: From tooth extractions to implants and restorations.
  
• Comfort-Focused Care: Dr. Knowles is known for his calm, compassionate approach and ability to ease patient anxiety.
  
• Convenient Downtown Location: Easily accessible from Beach Drive, Old Northeast, Snell Isle, and the greater St. Petersburg area.
  

Whether you’re a current patient or visiting us for the first time, you’ll receive the same attentive, professional care when it matters most.

Preventing Future Dental Emergencies

While some emergencies are unavoidable, many can be prevented with routine care and protective habits. We recommend:

• Regular cleanings and exams
  
• Wearing a custom mouthguard during sports
  
• Avoiding chewing hard objects or ice
  
• Addressing dental pain early before it worsens
  

For ongoing preventive care, explore our general dentistry services and Patient Membership Plan.