Calm, Compassionate Help When You Need It Most from Whiteman Dental Associates
Dental pain doesn’t always wait for a convenient time. It can start slowly or show up all at once, and when it does, you deserve care that feels thoughtful, steady, and supportive.
At Whiteman Dental Associates in Brookline, we offer same-day or next-day emergency dental appointments for patients in need of prompt attention. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, unexpected swelling, or a painful infection, we’ll take the time to listen, relieve your discomfort, and help you move forward with clarity.
Emergencies are stressful enough on their own. Getting care shouldn’t add to that. From your first phone call to your follow-up treatment, we’re here to guide you with calm, kind expertise.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
Not every dental issue is urgent, but some situations need attention sooner rather than later. If you’re in pain, unsure about what’s happening, or something just doesn’t feel right, we encourage you to call.
Common dental emergencies include:
- Sudden or severe toothache
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
- A knocked-out tooth
- Loose or lost crowns or fillings
- Gum or facial swelling
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop
- Signs of infection, such as throbbing, warmth, or pus
You don’t need to make that call alone. Karen, our office manager, will walk you through the next steps and make sure you’re seen as quickly as possible.
How We Handle Emergency Dental Appointments
When you reach out with a dental emergency, we act quickly—but never hurriedly. Our approach is focused, calm, and designed to make sure you feel cared for.
Here’s what you can expect:
- We’ll start with a phone call to understand what’s happening. You’ll speak directly with a member of our small, dedicated team.
- If your situation is urgent, we’ll do our best to bring you in the same day.
- Once you arrive, Dr. Whiteman will begin with a targeted exam to assess the issue and ease your discomfort.
- Digital X-rays, bite testing, or visual inspection may be used to better understand what’s going on.
- We’ll explain everything clearly, including what we find and the treatment options available.
- If possible, we’ll provide initial care right away—such as pain relief, a temporary filling, or infection control.
- If follow-up treatment is needed, we’ll schedule that with you and make sure it fits your needs and your timing.
Every step is handled in-house, with full attention to your comfort and peace of mind.
Common Emergency Treatments
Dental emergencies can be unpredictable, but many can be managed quickly and conservatively when caught early. Depending on what we find during your visit, care may include:
- Tooth-colored fillings or temporary repairs
- Recementing a loose crown or bridge
- Drainage of an abscess and antibiotics if needed
- Tooth extractions, only when necessary
- Gentle bite adjustments to relieve pressure
- Temporary nightguards for cracked teeth caused by grinding
In some cases, your emergency appointment will resolve the issue entirely. In others, it may be the first step in a larger plan. Either way, we’ll help you move forward without pressure.
What to Do Before You Get Here
While waiting for your appointment, there are a few simple things you can do to stay comfortable and protect your tooth.
Here are some quick tips:
For a knocked-out tooth: Place it in milk or your own saliva and bring it with you. Handle it gently and avoid touching the root.
For swelling: Apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek to help reduce inflammation.
For bleeding: Use clean gauze and gentle pressure to slow the bleeding.
For pain: Over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums.
For a cracked or broken tooth: Rinse with warm water and avoid chewing on that side until we can see you.
You’re always welcome to call for additional guidance. We’ll walk you through what to do until you arrive.
You Won’t Be Judged for Waiting Too Long
Sometimes pain builds slowly. Sometimes it comes on fast. Either way, we know it’s not always easy to seek help. You may have put off care because of cost, time, nerves, or simply not knowing how serious it was.
At Whiteman Dental, we meet every emergency with kindness. There’s no judgment here—just support and a desire to help you feel better, both now and long term.
The most important thing is that you’re reaching out. We’ll take it from there.
Why Emergency Care at Whiteman Feels Different
In urgent moments, it helps to know you’re walking into a space that feels calm and familiar.
Our practice isn’t a chain or a clinic. You’ll be greeted by the same friendly faces every time you come in.
Dr. Whiteman brings more than 25 years of experience in restorative and cosmetic care, and his background in dental craftsmanship ensures that even emergency treatments are handled with care and attention to detail.
We don’t believe in temporary fixes unless they’re truly the best first step. If something can be handled fully during your visit, we’ll do it. If not, we’ll create a clear, thoughtful plan together.
Our in-house lab and digital tools allow us to move quickly when needed, without compromising quality. The goal is always the same: to help you feel safe, informed, and cared for, even in stressful situations.
Insurance and Payment for Emergencies
Most dental insurance plans include emergency exams and basic treatment. We’ll help you verify your benefits ahead of time so you know what to expect.
Don’t have insurance? That’s okay. Karen will talk you through the cost of your visit and help you find a path that works for your needs and your budget. There are no surprise charges, and no pressure to commit to anything beyond what feels right for you.
Book Your Emergency Dental Appointment in Brookline
If you’re in pain, feeling unsure, or just need someone to help you figure out what’s going on, we’re here.
Emergency dental care at Whiteman Dental is designed to be clear, compassionate, and never rushed. You’ll be seen, heard, and treated like the person you are—not just the tooth that’s hurting.