706 Frederick Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Prompt, Compassionate Care When You Need It Most
Dental emergencies can happen without warning, and getting timely care makes all the difference. At our practice, we offer prompt appointments for urgent concerns so you’re never left waiting in pain.
From fractured teeth to severe toothaches and gum infections, we focus on relieving your discomfort quickly while protecting your long-term oral health. Our goal is to stabilize the issue, address the cause, and guide you toward a confident recovery — all with the compassion and precision you expect from our practice.
Same-Day Appointments at Aura Marcela Torres DDS
We understand how stressful dental emergencies can be, which is why we make every effort to see urgent cases as quickly as possible. Our team prioritizes relieving your pain, addressing the underlying cause, and preventing further damage—all in a calm, supportive environment.
You should seek urgent dental care if you’re experiencing:
- Severe or persistent tooth pain
- Swelling in the gums, jaw, or face
- Uncontrolled or continuous bleeding
- A lost or damaged crown, filling, or bridge
- Signs of infection—including pus, fever, or a foul taste
- Trauma from sports injuries, falls, or accidents
If you’re unsure whether your situation requires immediate attention, call our office right away. We can assess your symptoms over the phone and help determine the best next steps.
Conditions We Commonly Treat
Dental emergencies can happen without warning—during meals, sports, or even while you sleep. Whether it’s sudden pain, an injury, or unexpected damage to a tooth, knowing what to do in the moment can help protect your oral health until you reach our office. Below are some of the most common situations we treat and what you can do right away.
Chipped, Cracked, or Broken Tooth
If you break or chip a tooth, rinse gently with warm water to keep the area clean. Applying a cold compress to the cheek can help reduce swelling or discomfort. Contact our office as soon as possible, and if you have any broken pieces, bring them with you in a clean, moist cloth or container.
Loose or Knocked-Out Tooth
A loose or avulsed (knocked-out) tooth requires immediate attention. If the tooth has come out completely, hold it by the crown—never the root—and gently rinse if needed. Try placing it back into the socket without forcing it. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or keep it in your mouth between the cheek and gums. Call us immediately so we can increase the chance of saving the tooth.
Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain
Tooth pain that lingers or worsens is often a sign of infection or advanced decay. While over-the-counter pain relievers may offer temporary relief, they won’t address the underlying issue. Reach out to our team promptly for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Bitten Lip, Cheek, or Tongue
If you’ve accidentally bitten soft tissue, clean the area gently and apply a cold compress to manage swelling. If bleeding is heavy or doesn’t stop, contact our office for further evaluation.