Immediate, friendly dental care for toothaches, chipped teeth, lost fillings and all dental emergencies in Nanaimo, BC.
Dental emergencies are unforeseen, uncomfortable and frequently beyond your control, yet the decision to opt for an appropriate Nanaimo dental clinic for your dental crisis is a choice you can certainly make.
Please note Nanaimo Smiles, located at 2700 Norwell Drive, Nanaimo, is open from Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm with select Saturday availability. Please contact our team by calling (250) 591-6000 for immediate assistance. If you are experiencing an emergency while the practice is closed, there is a dentist on call 24/7 through the Nanaimo and District Dental Society at (250) 816-1029. Nanaimo Smiles’ founder, Dr. Nadia Stymiest, is frequently on call and when she is, can be reached via this number.
Understanding Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies often come unannounced, rerouting an otherwise ordinary day of plans into a non-negotiable trip to the dentist. So how do you know if you’re having a dental emergency that requires immediate attention from your local Nanaimo dentist?
A dental emergency is defined as “Any dental issue requiring immediate dental treatment in order to alleviate serious pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth is considered an emergency.” And while the list of dental emergencies that one may experience is extensive, here are some of the most common we see at Nanaimo Smiles:
- Toothaches: Often indicating underlying issues like cavities, infections, or gum disease, toothaches can range from mildly annoying to excruciatingly painful.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Whether it’s a result of a sports mishap or an unfortunate fall, a knocked-out tooth is a critical dental emergency that demands immediate attention.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth: A chipped tooth may not always cause immediate pain, but leaving it unattended could lead to more severe issues down the line.
- Abscessed Tooth: An abscessed tooth, typically resulting from a bacterial infection, can lead to severe, throbbing pain and should be treated immediately to prevent further complications.
- Lost Filling or Crown: While it may not seem as urgent as the others, a lost filling or crown exposes your tooth to potential damage and decay that could lead to more severe concerns.
What should I do if I’m experiencing a dental emergency in Nanaimo, BC?
If you’re reading this while experiencing a dental emergency, you are already doing the right thing! Please contact our team by calling (250) 591-6000 for immediate assistance. For dental emergency assistance while our office is closed, please call the Nanaimo and District Dental Society at (250) 816-1029 for assistance 24/7. Nanaimo Smiles’ founder, Dr. Nadia Stymiest, is frequently on call and can often be reached via this number.
Once you have seeked help from a professional, you can help manage your dental emergency by doing the following:
- Toothaches: Rinse your mouth with warm water and use dental floss to remove any lodged food. To help ease discomfort, you may opt to take an over-the-counter pain medication or use a warm/cool compress on the affected area.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: If you knocked out or chipped your tooth, it can likely be saved! Rinse the tooth with water, making sure not to touch the root. If possible, place it back in the socket, or store it in milk.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth and any broken pieces with warm water. If there’s bleeding, apply a piece of gauze until it stops.
- Abscessed Tooth: Rinse your mouth with a mild saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day.
- Lost Filling or Crown: As a temporary solution, stick a piece of sugar-free gum into the cavity or secure the crown with over-the-counter dental cement—but remember to please seek immediate dental attention.
Should I go to the hospital emergency room for my dental emergency?
If you are experiencing heavy bleeding, are having trouble breathing or suspect you may have a broken bone, go to the emergency room or call 911.
Trusting Nanaimo Smiles with Your Dental Emergency
Nanaimo Smiles dental clinic is the obvious choice for your dental emergencies in Nanaimo, BC. We offer same-day emergency dental in a modern, safe practice with the most advanced technology and treatments. Our Nanaimo dentists offer sedation dentistry via nitrous oxide to allow for our patients’ comfort. Our spacious dental operatories are equipped with the comfortable, new dental chairs, ceiling mounted TVs and any additional comforts you may desire—pillows, blankets, earplugs, sunglasses and earphones can all be requested for your additional comfort. Plus, with five dentists across two locations, our team is able to act quickly so you can get the help you need.
Nanaimo Dentists Who Care
Whether you are a long-time existing patient or simply experience a dental emergency while in the Nanaimo area, our team provides the same, exceptional dental care. We have a strict “All Smiles Welcome” policy that guides our approach to inclusive dentistry. Our Nanaimo Smiles team recognizes dental emergencies can be overwhelming and approach dental anxiety with extra patience. Our team is trained to handle a broad range of dental emergencies and equipped with advanced technology to ensure the best possible care—with a smile. Get to know the friendly team at Nanaimo Smiles here.
“I had a tooth that was giving me a lot of pain and discomfort so I called the office at 11am and to my surprise I was told to come in at 1pm that afternoon for them to have a look at it. I really appreciated it!” —Anna, Nanaimo Smiles
“Broke a tooth and they had me in within the hour for an assessment, and went over my options very thoroughly. Kind and caring,” —Matt, Ladysmith Smiles
“While traveling through the area, I unexpectedly had a filling fall out on the weekend. Dang! What do you do when you don’t have a regular dentist in the area, and you have a dental issue? I called the emergency dental phone number that many of the local dentists have on their websites, and at this particular time, was put through to Shannon, the Care Coordinator for Ladysmith Smiles. She was able to smoothly book me in for the first spot she had available on Monday. The dentist I had that day, Dr. Nadia Stymiest, is probably one of the best I have ever encountered. Her technical abilities, knowledge, and chair side manner are unmatched. Many dental practices spout ‘Gentle Dental’, and ‘Family Values’, but Dr. Stymiest and her team actually walk the walk. Practices can’t fake their core values, and both Ladysmith Smiles and now Nanaimo Smiles are patient focused, well run, efficient, and smooth operations.” —Kbarbutza, Ladysmith Smiles
Emergency Dentist in Nanaimo, BC
At Nanaimo Smiles, we understand that dental emergencies can’t wait. We prioritize emergency cases and aim to provide same-day treatment whenever possible. Contact our team by calling (250) 591-6000.
Beyond handling emergencies, Nanaimo Smiles believes in the power of preventive dental care. Regular check-ups can help detect potential issues early, preventing the distress of many dental emergencies. Nanaimo Smiles is accepting new patients of all ages. To join the Smiles family, click here.