Dental Emergency FAQ: Common Questions from South Surrey Patients

When something goes wrong with a tooth, most people have the same handful of questions. Here are straightforward answers from our team in South Surrey.

What counts as a dental emergency?

Any situation involving severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, facial swelling, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken tooth with a sharp edge should be treated as an emergency. If you're unsure, call us and we'll help you decide.

Should I go to the ER or a dentist?

Hospital emergency rooms can manage pain and infection, but they usually can't repair or restore a tooth. For anything tooth-related, a dentist is almost always the right first call. Go to the ER for jaw fractures, trauma with loss of consciousness, or swelling affecting your breathing or swallowing.

How soon can I be seen?

We hold space in our daily schedule for same-day emergencies. Call 604-535-8835 first thing in the morning for the best chance of a same-day appointment.

How much does an emergency visit cost?

Costs depend on the treatment needed — a simple exam and prescription is very different from a root canal or extraction. We'll walk you through pricing before starting any work.

What if I lost a filling or crown?

Avoid chewing on that side and keep the area clean. If you still have the crown, bring it with you — sometimes we can re-cement it. If not, a same-day CEREC crown can often replace it in one visit.

I'm too anxious to come in — what are my options?

We offer sedation options for anxious patients, including nitrous oxide and oral sedation, so emergency care feels manageable.

Can I prevent future emergencies?

Regular checkups catch cracked fillings, gum infections, and decay before they turn into pain. A nightguard can also protect against grinding-related fractures.