Compassionate, Prompt Dental Care When You Need It Most
Dental pain or injury can happen suddenly—during a meal, after a fall, or even overnight. When it does, finding calm, professional help matters. At Whiteman Dental Associates in Boston, we offer same-day and next-day emergency dental appointments so you can get relief and reassurance without delay.
Dr. Daniel Whiteman and his dedicated team handle emergencies with the same level of attention and care they bring to every visit. From your first phone call to your final follow-up, you’ll be guided through each step with clarity and calm professionalism.
We understand that urgent dental issues can be stressful. Our goal is to make your experience as smooth and supportive as possible, helping you regain comfort and confidence quickly.
What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency includes any situation where pain, swelling, bleeding, or damage requires prompt care. Some issues may not seem urgent at first, but can worsen without attention. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to call.
Common dental emergencies include:
- Sudden, severe toothache
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
- A tooth that’s been knocked out
- Lost crowns, fillings, or bridges
- Gum or facial swelling
- Persistent bleeding from the mouth
- Signs of infection, such as throbbing, fever, or pus
When you contact our office, our team will listen carefully and determine the best time to bring you in—often the same day. You’ll never be left guessing about what to do next.
How We Respond to Emergency Calls
When you reach out with a dental emergency, our team moves efficiently but without rushing. We focus on two priorities: easing your discomfort and understanding the root cause.
Here’s how we handle your visit:
- Initial Call: You’ll speak directly with one of our experienced staff members, who will assess your symptoms and schedule your appointment as soon as possible.
- Arrival and Assessment: When you arrive, we’ll review your situation and take digital X-rays or perform visual exams to identify what’s happening.
- Relief and Stabilization: Dr. Whiteman will prioritize pain relief and stabilization. This may include addressing infection, repairing damage, or placing a temporary restoration.
- Clear Next Steps: We’ll discuss what we find, explain your options, and, if needed, plan any follow-up care to restore your dental health fully.
Every step is guided by compassion and professionalism. You’ll never feel rushed or left in the dark about your treatment.
Common Treatments During an Emergency Visit
Dental emergencies can vary, but many can be managed quickly when addressed early. Depending on what we find, treatment may include:
- Repairing chipped or cracked teeth with composite resin
- Recementing crowns or bridges that have come loose
- Treating infections with antibiotics or drainage
- Placing temporary fillings or crowns to protect exposed areas
- Adjusting the bite to relieve pressure
- Extracting teeth only when absolutely necessary
We always prioritize conservative solutions whenever possible. Many patients leave their emergency visit feeling comfortable and with their issue fully resolved.
What to Do Before You Arrive
If you’re waiting to be seen, there are a few steps you can take to stay comfortable and protect your teeth:
- For a knocked-out tooth: Place it in milk or your own saliva and bring it with you. Avoid touching the root.
- For swelling: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek for short intervals.
- For bleeding: Apply gentle pressure using clean gauze or a soft cloth.
- For tooth pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but never place aspirin directly on gums or teeth.
- For a cracked or broken tooth: Rinse with warm water and avoid chewing on that side until your appointment.
You can always call our office for tailored advice. We’ll guide you through what to do before you arrive.
Why It’s Important Not to Wait
Even if discomfort seems manageable, delaying care can make the situation worse. Infections can spread, broken teeth can fracture further, and untreated pain can quickly intensify.
By reaching out early, you:
- Reduce your risk of needing more complex treatment later
- Prevent infection from spreading to nearby tissues
- Preserve more of your natural tooth structure
- Avoid prolonged discomfort or sleepless nights
At Whiteman Dental Associates, we view emergency care as both a relief measure and a preventive step—helping protect your long-term dental health.
You’ll Never Be Judged for Waiting
We know that seeking emergency dental care can sometimes feel daunting. Maybe life got busy, or you were unsure if the pain was serious. Whatever the reason, our focus is on helping you feel better—not judging how you got here.
Dr. Whiteman and the entire team approach every situation with understanding and empathy. You’ll be treated with respect, kindness, and professionalism, no matter when you come to us.
What matters most is that you’re taking the step to get help now—and we’ll handle the rest.
Why Patients in Boston Choose Whiteman Dental Associates
In urgent situations, trust and calm matter. Our practice offers both.
Dr. Whiteman brings more than 25 years of clinical experience in restorative, cosmetic, and emergency care. His deep understanding of dental anatomy allows him to quickly diagnose and treat urgent issues with precision and ease.
Patients appreciate our welcoming atmosphere, where every face is familiar and every appointment is handled with genuine care. From the front desk to the treatment room, we prioritize your comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
With advanced diagnostic tools, an in-house lab, and a small, experienced team, we’re able to deliver same-day solutions when needed—always with quality as the guiding principle.
Insurance and Payment Information
Most dental insurance plans include coverage for emergency exams and related treatment. Our administrative team will verify your benefits and review what’s covered before any work begins.
If you don’t have insurance, that’s okay. We offer transparent pricing, flexible payment options, and an upfront explanation of costs. Karen, our office manager, will work with you to create a plan that fits your situation.
Our priority is ensuring you get the care you need without additional stress or uncertainty.
How We Support You After Emergency Treatment
Emergency care doesn’t end when you leave the office. We follow up to ensure your comfort, monitor healing, and guide you through any next steps.
This may include:
- Scheduling follow-up visits for additional treatment if needed
- Reviewing oral hygiene habits to prevent recurrence
- Offering long-term solutions like nightguards for cracked teeth caused by grinding
- Coordinating with specialists if advanced procedures are required
Our continuity of care ensures you’re supported from the moment you call until your smile is fully restored.
Preventing Future Emergencies
While not every emergency can be predicted, some can be prevented with proactive care. Regular checkups, cleanings, and X-rays allow us to catch small issues before they become painful problems.
We also recommend:
- Wearing a mouthguard for contact sports or teeth grinding
- Avoiding chewing hard objects like ice or pens
- Maintaining consistent brushing and flossing habits
- Reporting any changes in bite or sensitivity early
Prevention may not stop every emergency, but it greatly reduces risk and helps preserve your long-term oral health.
Schedule Your Emergency Dental Appointment in Boston
If you’re in pain, worried about a broken tooth, or unsure what’s wrong, we’re ready to help. Whiteman Dental Associates offers prompt, compassionate emergency care tailored to your needs.
Every appointment is handled with steady professionalism and clear communication, ensuring you leave feeling reassured and informed.
You don’t have to face dental pain alone. Relief can begin today.
Your Emergency Dental Questions Answered
How do I know if my situation is urgent?
If you’re in significant pain, notice swelling, bleeding, or have visible tooth damage, it’s best to call. We’ll help determine if same-day care is needed.
Can I drive myself to the appointment if I’m in pain?
If your pain is manageable and you’re alert, yes. However, if swelling or medication affects your comfort or focus, consider arranging a ride.
What if my dental crown falls off at night?
Keep the crown in a safe place and avoid chewing on that side. Call us first thing in the morning, and we’ll do our best to see you the same day.
Is it normal for a toothache to come and go?
Yes, but fluctuating pain often signals an underlying issue such as infection or decay. Schedule an appointment soon to prevent worsening symptoms.
How can I reduce swelling before I’m seen?
Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes at a time and keep your head elevated while resting. Avoid applying heat directly to the area.
What should I avoid doing before my emergency visit?
Avoid chewing hard foods, poking the affected area, or using sharp objects to remove debris. This can worsen the condition.
Can you save a broken tooth?
Often, yes. Depending on the severity of the break, bonding, crowns, or veneers can restore both function and appearance.
What if I have severe dental anxiety during an emergency?
We understand and will adjust our pace and approach. Our team takes extra care to explain each step and ensure you feel safe throughout.
Do you offer emergency appointments for children?
Yes. We provide emergency dental care for patients of all ages. We handle children’s visits gently, explaining each step to keep them comfortable.
Can antibiotics alone treat a dental infection?
Antibiotics can control infection temporarily, but they don’t address the root cause. A dental procedure is often needed to resolve it fully.