Patient Guide · Emergency Dentistry
Dental Emergency in Wilmington? Here’s What to Do. The First 30 Minutes Matter.
A dental emergency can strike without warning: a cracked tooth at dinner, sudden swelling or a tooth knocked out during sports. What you do in the first 30 minutes can be the difference between saving and losing a tooth.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Hina Ejaz, DMD · Penn Dental Medicine
Updated October 31, 2026 · 3 min read
Key takeaways
- A knocked-out tooth has the best chance if it is back in the socket, or in milk, within 30 minutes.
- Facial swelling, fever or a bump on the gum signals infection that needs same-day care.
- We hold same-day emergency appointments, and CEREC crowns often finish the repair in one visit.
What to do, emergency by emergency
- Knocked-out tooth: pick it up by the crown, never the root. Rinse gently and try to place it back in the socket. If you can’t, keep it in milk or saliva and get to us within 30 minutes.
- Cracked or broken tooth: rinse with warm water, use a cold compress for swelling and avoid chewing on that side.
- Severe toothache: rinse with warm salt water and take over-the-counter pain relief as directed, then see a dentist the same day.
- Swelling or abscess: facial swelling, fever or a bump on the gum signals infection that needs prompt care.
- Lost crown or filling: keep the piece if you can, cover the tooth with dental cement or sugar-free gum and call us.
Why same-day care matters
Waiting turns small problems into big ones: a crack can become a root canal, and an infection can spread. We hold emergency appointments every day, so you don’t have to wait in pain. Learn more about tooth infection treatment.
What happens when you call
Call 302-984-3300 and tell us it’s an emergency. We’ll give you care instructions on the phone and get you into the chair as quickly as possible. With 3D imaging and CEREC same-day crowns on site, many emergencies are fully resolved in one visit.
Preventing emergencies
Wear a mouthguard for sports, avoid chewing ice and hard candy, keep up with regular checkups, and save our number in your phone.
About the reviewer: Dr. Hina Ejaz, DMD
Penn-trained dentist with fifteen years of clinical experience, advanced training at King’s College London and Tokyo Medical and Dental University, and a Major in the U.S. Army Reserve.
5.0★ on Google
What Our Patients Say
“Excellent experience! Loved the doctor and especially the painless teeth cleaning. They were also much more transparent and upfront about pricing, with everything clearly explained and no surprises. Another big plus is that they’re open on Fridays, which made scheduling much easier. Highly recommend!”
“Wonderful staff, very kind and patient.”
“I was a patient of Dr. Herb Casalena for over 25 years. I recently visited his office and met his replacement and could not have been happier or more impressed. She got me out of pain and took care of my issues promptly. I am certain that Herb would be very proud of her and happy that she is here to treat his patients.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
Do you see dental emergencies the same day?+
Yes. We hold same-day emergency appointments. Call 302-984-3300 as early as you can.
When should I go to the ER instead?+
Go to the ER or call 911 for swelling that spreads toward the eye or neck, trouble breathing or swallowing, or a high fever.
What should I do with a knocked-out tooth?+
Hold it by the crown, rinse gently, try to put it back in the socket, or keep it in milk and get to a dentist within 30 minutes.
Related Treatments
Dental Insurance Accepted
We accept most dental PPO plans, verify your benefits for free and file your claims. Medicaid not accepted.
Visit Us in Wilmington
Wilmington Dental & Implants
2300 Pennsylvania Ave, Suite 6AB (6th floor)
Wilmington, DE 19806
Formerly Herbert T. Casalena, DDS, P.A. Near Trolley Square. Patient records remain on site.
| Monday – Friday | 8 AM – 5 PM |
| Saturday – Sunday | Closed |
Most PPO plans accepted · Medicaid not accepted
Ready when you are.
Call our Wilmington office at 302-984-3300 or request a time online. Cleanings within 2 weeks, guaranteed. Same-day emergency appointments. Free insurance check.
