Emergency Dental Care for Norristown Patients
A toothache that keeps you up at night, a cracked tooth, or a sudden injury can leave you worried and unsure where to turn. Dental Arts of Blue Bell helps patients from Norristown and nearby communities get prompt, compassionate care when dental problems can't wait.
Call us as soon as a problem starts. We'll talk through your symptoms, offer guidance for managing discomfort, and work to see you as quickly as possible.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
- Severe or throbbing tooth pain
- A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
- A knocked-out or loosened tooth
- Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw
- A lost filling or crown
- Signs of infection, such as a pimple-like bump on the gums
What to Do Before Your Visit
- Knocked-out tooth: Hold it by the top, not the root. Rinse gently, then try to place it back in the socket or keep it in milk. Time matters, so call right away.
- Broken tooth: Rinse with warm water and hold a cold compress against your cheek.
- Lost crown: Keep it safe and bring it with you.
- Toothache: Rinse with warm water and gently floss to remove any trapped food. Never place aspirin directly on your gums.
If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, rapidly spreading swelling, a high fever, or a serious facial injury, go to the nearest emergency room or call 911.
Meet Your Dentists
- Erika Johnston, DMD, completed a hospital-based general practice residency at Lehigh Valley Hospital after earning her DMD from the University of Pennsylvania. That training, plus more than 20 years in practice, helps her assess urgent problems clearly and explain your options calmly.
- Sharon Nam, DMD, a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University, treats every patient with gentleness and compassion. That matters most when you arrive in pain and feeling anxious.
Payment Options for Urgent Care
A dental emergency is stressful enough without worrying about cost. We accept many insurance plans and can help you understand your coverage. To get care now and pay over time, ask about CareCredit® or Sunbit. We also accept cash, checks, and credit cards.
*Subject to credit approval—minimum monthly payments required. Visit www.carecredit.com for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the ER do anything for dental pain?
An emergency room can help with severe swelling, infection, or pain that needs immediate attention. Most ERs can't repair teeth, though, so you'll still need a dentist to treat the cause.
What should I do if I have a dental emergency in the middle of the night?
For trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or severe swelling, go to the ER. Otherwise, use a cold compress, take over-the-counter pain relief as directed on the label, and call our office as soon as we open.
What can I take to calm my nerves before a dentist appointment?
Slow breathing, music, and sharing your worries with our team can help. If your anxiety is significant, ask us about sedation and comfort options. Please don't take any medication for nerves without talking to your dentist or doctor first.
Can a broken tooth be saved?
Often, yes. It depends on the break, and prompt care improves the chances.
Get Help Today
If you're in pain, please don't wait. Call Dental Arts of Blue Bell today for emergency dental care near Norristown, PA.



