Emergency Dentistry in West Hollywood

Emergency Dentistry FAQ

What counts as a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that requires immediate professional care to relieve severe pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth. Common emergencies include a knocked-out (avulsed) tooth, a fractured or cracked tooth exposing the pulp, an abscess with facial swelling, uncontrolled oral bleeding, and trauma to the jaw. If you are unsure whether your situation qualifies, call Smile Lounge West Hollywood at (323) 676-1843 — we will advise you and schedule a same-day visit when needed.

Can I be seen the same day for a dental emergency?

Yes. Dr. Sherwin Matian reserves time in the daily schedule specifically for emergency patients. In most cases, same-day appointments are available so we can diagnose the issue, manage your pain, and begin treatment before the condition worsens. Call (323) 676-1843 as soon as symptoms appear.

What should I do if a permanent tooth is knocked out?

Pick the tooth up by the crown — never touch the root surface. If it is dirty, rinse gently with milk or saline; do not scrub. Try to place the tooth back in the socket and hold it in position with light pressure. If reinsertion is not possible, keep the tooth moist in milk or in your cheek and reach our office within 30 minutes. The faster you act, the higher the chance Dr. Matian can successfully reimplant and splint the tooth.

How is a severe toothache treated in an emergency visit?

Dr. Matian first takes a periapical X-ray to identify the cause — typically deep decay, a cracked tooth, or a periapical abscess. Treatment may include pulp therapy (root canal), incision and drainage of an abscess, or extraction if the tooth cannot be saved. Local anesthesia and, when appropriate, prescription analgesics keep you comfortable throughout the process.

Can a dental infection spread if I wait?

Yes. An untreated dental abscess can spread to adjacent fascial spaces in the head and neck, potentially causing cellulitis or, in rare cases, a life-threatening airway obstruction (Ludwig angina). Systemic signs such as fever, difficulty swallowing, or swelling extending to the eye or neck require urgent evaluation. Do not wait — contact our West Hollywood office immediately at (323) 676-1843.

What if I lose a crown or filling?

Keep the crown or filling if you can find it and avoid chewing on that side. A lost restoration exposes dentin or the pulp chamber, which can cause sensitivity and invite bacterial contamination. Dr. Matian can often re-cement a displaced crown or place a new composite filling in a single visit. Temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can protect the tooth until your appointment.

Does emergency dental care cost more than a regular visit?

The exam fee for an emergency visit is comparable to a standard appointment. Treatment costs depend on the diagnosis — a simple re-cementation is minimal, while a root canal or surgical extraction involves additional fees. Our front-desk team will provide a clear cost estimate and help verify your dental insurance benefits before treatment begins.

How can I prevent dental emergencies?

Wear a custom athletic mouthguard during contact sports, avoid chewing ice or hard candy, and attend regular cleanings and exams at Smile Lounge so Dr. Matian can identify weakened teeth, failing restorations, or early infections before they become emergencies. Our office is located at 8704 Santa Monica Blvd. Suite 201A, West Hollywood, CA 90069.