Toothaches and broken teeth don’t wait for a good time — they show up in the middle of dinner, on your lunch break, or right before a big weekend. The sudden jolt of pain or panic can make you feel like you have to tough it out. But the truth is, you don’t. At Dr. Reen Chung, DDS in Northgate, Seattle, we’re here to help you get relief fast with same-day emergency dental care.
Whether it’s a cracked tooth, a throbbing ache, or something you can’t quite identify, our team focuses on one thing first — getting you comfortable again.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
Dental pain and injuries come in all shapes and sizes, and it’s not always easy to know when to call. The short answer? If it hurts, it’s worth checking out. Some issues that need urgent attention include:
Persistent or Severe Tooth Pain: Lingering or intense discomfort often signals infection or nerve involvement.
Broken or Fractured Teeth: Damage to the tooth structure can worsen if untreated.
Knocked-Out Teeth: Timing is critical if we’re to save the tooth.
Gum or Jaw Swelling: This may point to infection and needs immediate care.
Lost Crowns or Fillings: Leaving a tooth exposed can lead to further damage or decay.
Dental Injuries From Sports or Accidents: Quick evaluation helps avoid long-term issues.
Even if the problem seems small, don’t wait to get it looked at. Something that feels like “just a chip” could expose the inner tooth or lead to infection over time.
Same-Day Toothache Relief in Northgate
A toothache might start as a dull ache or appear suddenly overnight. Either way, it’s your body’s signal that something deeper needs attention — and ignoring it can make things worse.
Common causes of tooth pain include:
Cavities That Reach the Tooth’s Nerve: Deep decay can cause sharp or throbbing pain.
Cracked Teeth or Loose Fillings: These expose sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
Gum Infections or Abscesses: Signs include swelling, pus, and radiating pain.
Sinus Pressure Mimicking Tooth Pain: Often affects upper molars and feels like a dull ache.
At Dr. Reen Chung, DDS, we’ll take digital X-rays and perform a focused exam to find the root of the problem. In many cases, same-day treatment is possible — whether that’s removing decay, restoring a broken filling, or beginning root canal therapy if infection has set in. Our goal is simple: relieve your pain and preserve your tooth.
If You’ve Broken or Knocked Out a Tooth
Dental injuries can happen fast — a slip on the sidewalk, a bite on something hard, or an elbow during a game. If you’ve broken or knocked out a tooth, here’s what to do before you reach our office:
- Rinse gently with warm water (no scrubbing).
- If a tooth is knocked out, pick it up by the crown — not the root.
- Try to place it back in the socket, or keep it moist in milk or a clean container with saliva.
- Call our office immediately.
The sooner you get here, the better the chances we can save your natural tooth. Even if the tooth can’t be reimplanted, prompt care helps reduce pain, protect the area, and prevent infection.
Keeping You Comfortable — Every Step of the Way
Dental emergencies can feel stressful, especially when you’re in pain and unsure what’s happening. That’s why our approach focuses on both relief and reassurance. Dr. Reen Chung uses gentle, precise techniques and local anesthesia to keep treatment comfortable. Our team is skilled at helping anxious patients feel at ease — you’ll always know what’s being done and why.
Whether it’s a quick filling, a repair, or the first step in a longer treatment plan, we’ll make sure you leave feeling better than when you came in.
Can Dental Emergencies Be Prevented?
While some accidents can’t be avoided, a few simple habits can make a big difference:
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or activities where impacts are likely.
- Avoid chewing ice, pens, or very hard candies.
- Keep up with regular checkups — catching small cracks or decay early can prevent emergencies later.
- Address tooth pain early instead of waiting for it to worsen.
Little steps like these go a long way toward avoiding unexpected pain.
Your Emergency Dentist in Northgate, Seattle
At Dr. Reen Chung, DDS, we know that dental emergencies don’t follow a schedule — but we do. We reserve time each day for urgent visits, so you won’t have to wait days for relief.
If you’re dealing with a sudden toothache, a chipped tooth, or a dental injury, call our Northgate office right away. Our team will help you get back to comfort quickly — and back to smiling with confidence.
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