If you need an emergency dentist, Dr. Harveer Kaur will see you today during her regular office hours. At Kokopelli Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Ahwatukee, we know how painful dental emergencies can be. We want to relieve your pain as soon as possible.
Toothaches
There are several reasons to visit an emergency dentist, but the most common is toothache. What causes a toothache? Usually, an infection in the tooth is the culprit. Once a tooth has a cavity, bacteria begin multiplying inside your tooth. They secrete acid, which dissolves away the tooth structure. Once they penetrate into the pulp of the tooth, bacteria are now inside the living pulp tissue. You have a tooth infection.
The pain you feel with an infected tooth is caused by your immune system fighting the bacteria. When the infection is detected, your immune system floods the tooth with white blood cells to destroy the infection. This causes swelling in the tight space inside the tooth, resulting in severe pain. In time, the infection will spread out through the ends of the tooth roots, resulting in an abscess in the jawbone. You may notice a bump or pimple near the tooth in that case. When the pulp tissue inside the tooth is dead, the pain may go away, but the infection still needs immediate attention.
It is usually a quick and simple procedure to get you out of pain. Dr. Kaur will numb the area around the tooth, access the interior, and, depending on how far the infection has progressed, will either place a disinfectant inside the tooth or create an opening for the infection to drain. You’ll leave the office feeling much better. You’ll have a follow-up plan to finish the treatment, and, if needed, a prescription for antibiotics.
Anxiety at the Emergency Dentist
It’s common to feel anxious before visiting the dentist, especially if you’re having an emergency and are in pain. We understand and want you to feel at ease in our care. During procedures, we offer nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas), a mild sedative that can make dental work less stressful. Nitrous oxide wears off immediately after the procedure, so you’ll be able to return to your day after your appointment.
Office Hours
Monday – Friday: 7 AM to 3 PM
Saturdays: by appointment only
To make an emergency dental appointment with Dr. Kaur, please call us today at (480) 283-0733. We will see you as soon as possible, during our office hours.