Emergency Dentist in Rochester Hills, MI
Fast Relief When You Need It Most
A dental emergency is stressful, painful, and rarely convenient. If you have a severe toothache, a broken tooth, a knocked-out tooth or a swelling in your mouth, call O’Brien Dental Center at (248) 651-1940 and tell us what happened. Dr. Ashleigh O’Brien and our team will help you figure out the next step and work to get you out of pain as quickly as we can.
Located at 940 West Avon Rd in Rochester Hills, we provide emergency dental care for patients from across Rochester Hills, Rochester, Auburn Hills, Troy and the surrounding area. You do not need to be an existing patient to call.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
If you’re in pain or something feels wrong, don’t wait. Dental emergencies can escalate quickly and lead to more serious issues if left untreated.
Common Emergency Situations:
- Severe toothaches
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Swelling or abscesses
- Lost crowns or fillings
- Bleeding gums or trauma
If you’re unsure whether your situation is urgent, call us. We’ll help you decide what to do next.
Common Dental Emergencies We Treat
Severe Toothache
Persistent tooth pain is often a sign of deep decay, infection or a cracked tooth. Rinse with warm water, gently floss to remove any trapped food, and avoid very hot, cold or sugary foods. Call us so we can find the cause with an exam and X-rays and recommend treatment. Waiting usually allows the problem to get worse.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Time matters if an adult tooth is knocked out. Pick the tooth up by the crown (the chewing surface), not the root. If it is dirty, rinse it briefly with water, do not scrub it, and avoid wrapping it in tissue. If you can, gently place it back in the socket and hold it there; if not, keep it moist in milk or a tooth-preservation solution. Then call us immediately. The sooner a tooth is seen, the better the chance of saving it.
Broken, Chipped or Cracked Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water and save any fragments. Cover a sharp edge with sugar-free gum or dental wax if you have it, and use a cold compress for swelling. Depending on the damage, we may recommend bonding, a crown, or other treatment to protect the tooth and prevent infection. Our same-day CEREC crowns can often restore a damaged tooth in a single visit when a crown is the right solution.
Lost Crown or Filling
Keep the crown or filling if you can and bring it with you. Avoid chewing on that side. A tooth with a lost restoration can be sensitive and more prone to decay or fracture, so it is best to have it looked at promptly.
Dental Abscess or Swelling
An abscess is an infection that can spread and should be treated quickly. Signs include throbbing pain, swelling, a bad taste in your mouth, fever or a pimple-like bump on the gums. Call us right away. If you have swelling that is spreading, or trouble breathing or swallowing, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.
Soft-Tissue Injuries
For cuts to the lip, tongue or cheek, rinse gently with water and apply pressure with clean gauze. Seek urgent care if bleeding does not stop after about 15 minutes or if the wound is deep.
Root Canal Therapy for Pain Relief
When a tooth becomes infected or inflamed deep inside, a root canal may be necessary to save it. This procedure removes the damaged tissue, cleans the area, and seals the tooth to prevent further issues.
Signs You Might Need a Root Canal:
- Persistent pain
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Swollen gums
- Darkening of the tooth
- Pimple-like bump on the gum
Our root canal treatments are designed to be as comfortable and efficient as possible. We use modern tools and techniques to minimize discomfort and speed up recovery.
Tooth Extractions When Necessary
Sometimes, a tooth is too damaged to save. In these cases, a tooth extraction may be the best option to relieve pain and protect your overall oral health.
Reasons for Extraction:
- Severe decay
- Impacted wisdom teeth
- Infection
- Trauma
- Overcrowding
We perform extractions with care and precision, ensuring you’re comfortable throughout the process. Afterward, we’ll discuss options for replacing the tooth, such as implants or bridges.
Same-Day Appointments Available
We understand that emergencies can’t wait. That’s why we offer same-day appointments for urgent dental needs. Our team prioritizes emergency cases and works quickly to get you seen, treated, and back to feeling normal.
What to Expect During Your Visit:
- Quick evaluation
- Pain management
- Immediate treatment plan
- Clear communication
- Follow-up care instructions
How to Handle a Dental Emergency Before Your Visit
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, here are a few steps you can take before arriving at our office:
Helpful Tips:
For a knocked-out tooth: Keep it moist in milk or saliva
For swelling: Apply a cold compress
For bleeding: Use clean gauze and apply pressure
For pain: Take over-the-counter pain relief (avoid aspirin if bleeding)
Always call us first. We’ll guide you through the best steps to take based on your symptoms.
Why Choose O’Brien Dental Center for Emergency Care?
We combine experience, technology, and compassion to deliver fast, effective emergency dental care. Our team takes time to explain your condition, show you images of the affected area, and walk you through your treatment options.
What You’ll Get:
- Immediate attention
- Clear diagnosis
- Gentle care
- Insurance-friendly service
- Follow-up support
What to Expect at Your Emergency Visit
• A quick conversation about your symptoms and what happened.
• Digital X-rays and an exam with minimal radiation to find the cause of your problem.
• A clear explanation using our intraoral camera so you can see the issue yourself.
• Treatment to relieve pain and protect the tooth, with a follow-up plan if more care is needed.
Insurance and Payment for Emergency Care
We work with most dental insurance plans and are happy to help you understand your benefits. For patients without insurance, we offer flexible payment options for many treatments and a Smile Program membership. Call us at
(248) 651-1940, and we will explain what to expect before you arrive.
How to Help Prevent a Dental Emergency
• Wear a mouthguard for contact sports and a night guard if you grind your teeth
• Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, and non-food objects
• Never use your teeth to open packages
• Keep up with regular checkups so small problems are caught before they become emergencies
Don’t Wait—Call Us Now
If you’re in pain or dealing with a dental emergency, contact
O’Brien Dental Center in
Rochester Hills, MI right away. We’re here to help you feel better and protect your smile.
Phone: (248) 651-1940
Location: Rochester Hills, MI
Hours: Monday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm | Wednesday - Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm | Tuesday and Friday: By Appointment Only
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a same-day appointment for a dental emergency?
Yes, we offer same-day emergency visits. Call us as soon as possible.
Is a root canal painful?
With modern techniques, root canals are typically no more uncomfortable than getting a filling.
What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Keep the tooth moist and call us immediately. Time is critical for saving it.
Do you accept insurance for emergency visits?
Yes, we accept most insurance plans. Call us to confirm your coverage.
Dental Emergencies
Do you provide emergency dental care in Rochester Hills?
Yes. If you're experiencing severe tooth pain, a broken tooth, swelling, or another dental emergency, contact our office as soon as possible. We'll do our best to see you promptly.
What should I do if I break or knock out a tooth?
Call our office immediately. Quick treatment can often improve the chances of saving a damaged or knocked-out tooth.
