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132 New Britain Avenue, Rocky Hill, CT 06067
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Emergencies Happen – We’re Here to Help

When dental emergencies strike—whether it’s a broken tooth during dinner or a throbbing toothache in the middle of the night—you need expert care fast. At West Hill Family Dental, we provide responsive, same-day emergency dental care to individuals and families throughout Rocky Hill, Berlin, Cromwell, Newington, Wethersfield, and New Britain.

Our office, led by Dr. Robert J. Hemphill, DMD, has built a reputation for exceptional patient-centered care grounded in decades of clinical experience, hospital-based training at Yale, and a passion for making urgent dental treatment as stress-free as possible. With advanced diagnostic tools and a calm, compassionate approach, we help you regain comfort and confidence—even in high-pressure moments.

What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

Dental emergencies can be confusing, especially when pain or swelling is involved. If you’re unsure whether you need urgent dental treatment, give us a call at (860) 563-3303—we’ll help you assess the situation and take the right next step.

Common dental emergencies we handle include:

  • Severe toothaches or sudden oral pain
  • Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
  • Teeth knocked out due to impact or injury
  • Facial or oral swelling and signs of infection
  • Bleeding that doesn’t stop or pain following oral trauma

For life-threatening issues such as trouble breathing, severe swelling, or uncontrolled bleeding, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

Man with severe dental pain in a dental talking to a dentist.
woman with dental pain

Tooth Pain & At-Home Relief

Toothaches can be dull and persistent or sharp and stabbing. Either way, they’re a sign that something needs attention. Symptoms may include:

  • Pain when chewing or biting
  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Discomfort with hot or cold foods
  • Pain radiating to the jaw, ear, or head

Temporary relief tip: Mix 1 tablespoon of salt into warm water and rinse gently to soothe irritated tissue. This isn’t a substitute for professional care but can ease discomfort until you arrive at our Rocky Hill office.

Knocked-Out or Loosened Teeth: Timing Is Critical

Avulsion (completely knocked-out tooth) requires urgent care. Here’s what to do:

  • Retrieve the tooth and handle it by the crown only
  • Rinse gently if dirty—do not scrub
  • Try to reinsert it in the socket or place it in a glass of milk
  • Avoid letting the tooth dry out
  • Call us immediately for instructions and an emergency visit

Subluxation (loosened tooth) is often less urgent but still worth evaluating. You may notice bleeding, movement, or sensitivity. Dr. Hemphill will examine the area to ensure no root or bone damage has occurred.

woman with dental pain
woman with dental pain

Broken or Cracked Teeth

Rocky Hill residents often experience tooth fractures from everyday activities: chewing ice, sports injuries, or untreated decay. Some breaks don’t hurt, but deeper cracks can expose nerves and become intensely painful.

If you have a broken tooth:

  • Avoid chewing on that side
  • Rinse with warm water if there’s bleeding
  • Apply a cold compress if swelling is present
  • Schedule a visit with us immediately

We offer quick, reliable restorations—including composite bonding and custom dental crowns—to repair the damage and protect your tooth long-term.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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