When sudden tooth pain or a broken tooth strikes, it can stop everything in your day. In those moments, knowing where to go and what to expect can make all the difference. At Kelly Family Dentistry in Franklin, TN, we understand that dental emergencies can be frightening and unpredictable. That is why our team is prepared to provide same-day emergency dental care for patients of all ages with a calm and compassionate touch.
Our goal is to relieve your pain, preserve your oral health, and guide you through every step with care you can trust.
This Article Will Address:
- When to go to the ER vs. a dentist
- What counts as a dental emergency
- What insurance typically covers
- What to expect during your emergency visit
- Why families in Franklin trust Kelly Family Dentistry for urgent dental care
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any sudden issue involving pain, bleeding, or damage that requires immediate professional attention. If left untreated, these conditions can worsen quickly, leading to infection or permanent damage.
Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe or persistent toothache
- Cracked, chipped, or broken teeth
- Knocked-out (avulsed) tooth
- Lost crown or filling
- Abscess or facial swelling
- Gum or soft-tissue injury
Not every dental issue is an emergency. Mild sensitivity or a small chip that does not cause pain can often wait for a regular appointment. However, if you experience intense discomfort, swelling, or bleeding, call our office right away.
At Kelly Family Dentistry, we offer same-day emergency appointments in Franklin, TN, helping patients find relief fast in a welcoming, professional environment.
Can I Go to the ER for Tooth Pain?
It is a common question: Should I go to the emergency room or the dentist for tooth pain?
While hospital emergency rooms can help control pain and infection, they are not equipped to perform dental treatments. For most dental emergencies, your dentist is the best first call.
Here’s a quick guide:
- Go to the ER if you experience severe facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or uncontrolled bleeding.
- Call Kelly Family Dentistry if you have localized tooth pain, a broken or chipped tooth, a lost filling, or trauma limited to the mouth or jaw.
If you are unsure, call our office, and our team will guide you on what to do next. We’ll help determine whether you need immediate in-office care or medical attention elsewhere.
Call Kelly Family Dentistry at 615-790-9200 for urgent dental care in Franklin, TN. We’ll do our best to see you the same day.
What Can I Expect From an Emergency Dental Visit?
We know dental pain can be overwhelming, but understanding what to expect during your visit can ease some of that anxiety. At Kelly Family Dentistry, every emergency appointment is handled with efficiency and compassion.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Call: When you contact our office, our staff will ask about your symptoms and provide immediate at-home instructions until you arrive.
- Evaluation: Dr. Allyson Kelly will examine the affected area and take any necessary X-rays to identify the cause of pain or damage.
- Diagnosis: Once the issue is identified, you’ll receive a clear explanation of your options and next steps.
- Treatment: We’ll relieve your pain, perform any necessary repairs, or provide temporary restorations to stabilize the area.
- Follow-Up: If additional care is needed, we’ll schedule it promptly to complete your treatment and restore your smile.
Pre-Visit Checklist
- Bring your insurance card and a list of current medications.
- Avoid placing aspirin directly on your gums.
- If a tooth is knocked out, keep it moist by storing it in milk or saliva and bring it with you to the office.
Our team’s priority is making sure you are comfortable and informed every step of the way.
What Does Insurance Cover for Dental Emergencies?
Cost concerns are common during unexpected dental issues, and our team is here to help.
Most dental insurance plans cover a portion or all of the following:
- Emergency exams
- X-rays
- Pain-relief treatments or temporary restorations
Coverage details vary by plan, which is why Kelly Family Dentistry assists every patient in verifying benefits before or during their visit. Our office believes in transparency, providing clear information on costs and available payment options.
Tips for Managing Unexpected Dental Costs
- Ask about payment plans or financing options if you do not have insurance.
- Seek treatment as soon as symptoms appear to prevent larger, more expensive problems later.
By focusing on prompt, practical solutions, we help you return to comfort and health as quickly as possible.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not every emergency can be avoided, many are preventable through consistent oral care.
To lower your risk:
- Avoid chewing ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy.
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or other high-impact activities.
- Never use your teeth to open packaging.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings.
Routine visits to Kelly Family Dentistry allow us to detect and treat small problems before they become painful emergencies.
Why Choose Kelly Family Dentistry for Emergency Dental Care in Franklin, TN
For more than four decades, Kelly Family Dentistry has been a trusted name in the Franklin community. Founded in 1981 and led by Dr. Allyson Kelly, DDS, our practice combines hometown values with advanced training to deliver dependable, compassionate care.
Dr. Kelly’s background in oral surgery, endodontics, and emergency dental procedures allows her to treat urgent cases with precision and empathy. We treat every patient as family, ensuring your visit is calm, comfortable, and focused on fast relief.
When you choose Kelly Family Dentistry, you are choosing a team that prioritizes your comfort, respects your time, and genuinely cares about your well-being.
What To Do Right Now If You’re Experiencing a Dental Emergency
If you are currently in pain, do not wait. Call our office right away.
Here are a few quick do’s and don’ts to follow before your appointment:
Do:
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm water.
- Save any broken pieces or knocked-out teeth if possible.
Don’t:
- Ignore persistent pain or swelling.
- Apply aspirin or pain medication directly to the gums.
Our staff will guide you on next steps and ensure you receive the care you need as soon as possible.
Restoring Comfort and Confidence When You Need It Most
Dental emergencies can happen at any time, but prompt attention can make all the difference. At Kelly Family Dentistry in Franklin, TN, Dr. Allyson Kelly and her team are here to provide compassionate, same-day emergency dental care when you need it most.
If you or someone in your family is experiencing tooth pain, swelling, or dental trauma, call our office to request an appointment today. We’ll help you get back to smiling comfortably and confidently.
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