When Something Goes Wrong with Your Teeth, You Need Someone You Can Count On
When Something Goes Wrong with Your Teeth, You Need Someone You Can Count On
A knocked-out tooth. Sudden, severe pain. A broken crown that falls out at the worst possible
time. Dental emergencies are unpredictable — and they almost never happen at a convenient
moment.
At Scola Family Dentistry in Murrieta, CA, Dr. Valerie Scola takes pride in being accessible to her
patients when they need her most. She accommodates emergencies most days of the week,
including early morning and evening hours, because dental pain and dental trauma do not wait
for regular business hours.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
Not every dental problem needs same-day attention — but some absolutely do. Situations that
typically require prompt care include: severe toothache or swelling, a chipped or broken tooth,
a tooth that has been knocked out, a lost crown or filling that is causing pain or sensitivity, a
dental abscess (which can spread and become a serious health risk), and facial trauma affecting
the mouth, teeth, or jaw.
If you are unsure whether your situation is urgent, call us. We can help you assess your
symptoms and advise on next steps — including what to do while you wait to come in.
What to Do While You Wait for Care
For a knocked-out tooth: handle it by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently without
scrubbing, and try to place it back in the socket if possible. If not, store it in milk or between
your cheek and gum to keep it moist. The sooner you can get to the office, the better the
chances of saving the tooth.
For pain or swelling: over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort in the short
term. Cold compresses on the outside of the face can reduce swelling. Do not place aspirin
directly on the gum tissue.
For a broken or lost restoration: call us right away. In many cases, we can see you the same day.
Our Approach: Conservative, Calm, and Thorough
In the moment of a dental emergency, it can be tempting to make a quick decision just to
relieve the pain. Dr. Scola gently encourages patients to resist that impulse. Decisions made in
the heat of the moment — like agreeing to an extraction that may not be necessary — can have
lasting consequences for your health, your appearance, and your budget.
At Scola Family Dentistry, we take the time to listen to your specific circumstances, assess the
situation thoroughly, and recommend the most conservative approach that addresses the
problem. Extraction is always a last resort. Every effort will be made to save your natural tooth
first.
Do Not Face a Dental Emergency Alone
If you are dealing with dental pain or trauma right now, call Scola Family Dentistry at (951) 692-
4221. We will do everything we can to get you the care you need — quickly, calmly, and with
your long-term health in mind.
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