5 Steps to Handle a Dental Crisis and Find an Emergency Dentist Near Me (Easy SLC Guide)
Published June 28, 2026
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We’ve all been there. You’re enjoying a local burger in Murray or hiking the trails near Riverton when suddenly, crunch. A chipped tooth, a lost filling, or a sudden, throbbing ache can turn a great Utah day into a nightmare.
When you’re frantically searching for an emergency dentist near me, you don't just need a dentist; you need a neighbor who can get you out of pain fast. At Salt Flats Dentistry, we specialize in turning dental crises into "all better" moments.
Here is your 5-step guide to handling a dental emergency in the Salt Lake Valley.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first thing to do is take a deep breath. Most dental emergencies are fixable, especially when caught early.
- Knocked-out tooth? This is a true "minutes matter" situation.
- Severe pain or swelling? This could be an infection or abscess.
- Broken crown or lost filling? Uncomfortable, but usually not life-threatening.
If you are experiencing difficulty breathing or uncontrolled bleeding, head to the nearest SLC emergency room immediately. For everything else, your family dentist in Salt Lake City is your best bet.
Step 2: Perform Immediate First Aid
While you’re on the way to see us, there are a few things you can do to save your smile:
- For a knocked-out tooth: Pick it up by the crown (the top), not the root. Rinse it gently with water (no soap!) and try to place it back in the socket. If it won't go, keep it in a small container of milk or saliva.
- For a cracked tooth: Rinse with warm salt water and apply a cold compress to your cheek to keep the swelling down.
- For intense pain: Use over-the-counter pain relief, but never place aspirin directly on your gums, it can cause a chemical burn!
Step 3: Find an Insurance-Friendly Partner (Including Medicaid)
Financial stress shouldn't add to your physical pain. Many people hesitate to call a dentist in Salt Lake City because they worry about the bill.
At Salt Flats Dentistry, we pride ourselves on being accessible. We are a proud medicaid dentist in Utah, accepting Medicaid specifically at our Bangerter location in Riverton. Whether you have private insurance or rely on Medicaid, we’ll help you navigate your benefits so you can focus on feeling better.
Step 4: Demand "Same-Day" Technology
In a crisis, you don't have time for two or three appointments. You need a clinic that uses modern tech to speed things up.
- Same-Day Crowns: Using Cerec technology, we can often craft and place a permanent crown in a single visit. No messy impressions, no temporary caps.
- 3D X-Rays (CBCT): This allows us to see exactly what’s happening beneath the surface, which is vital for planning dental implants in Utah or identifying hidden infections.
Step 5: Choose a Dentist Who Understands Anxiety
We know that a dental emergency is scary. If the thought of a drill makes your heart race, ask about sedation dentistry in Utah. We offer everything from laughing gas to deeper sedation options, plus "comfort menu" items like noise-canceling headphones and ceiling-mounted TVs to distract you while we work.
Meet Your Local Expert: Dr. Todd Vincent
The heart of Salt Flats Dentistry is Dr. Todd Vincent. A true local who grew up right here in the Salt Lake Valley, Dr. Vincent built this practice on the idea that high-tech dentistry should feel like a visit with a friend. When he’s not busy restoring smiles with porcelain veneers or all on 4 dental implants, you’ll likely find him exploring the Wasatch mountains or spending time with his family. His goal? To make sure no Utahn has to live with dental pain.
What Our Patients Are Saying
"I woke up with a toothache that was an 11 out of 10. I searched for an 'emergency dentist near me' and found Salt Flats. From the second I walked in, they made me feel safe. Dr. Vincent explained everything clearly, and they even worked with my insurance. I walked out pain-free the same afternoon!" , Sarah J., Murray Resident
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer same-day appointments?
Yes! We prioritize dental emergencies and aim to see you the same day you call.
Where are you located?
We have convenient locations for Dentists in Murray and Dentists in Riverton.
What if I need a full restoration?
Beyond emergencies, we are a full-service cosmetic dentist in Salt Lake City. We offer everything from dentures to full-arch all on 4 dental implants and custom porcelain veneers to give you back your confidence.
Don't Wait: Get Relief Now
Whether it's a minor chip or a major ache, our team is ready to help. Salt Flats Dentistry combines the latest technology with the friendly atmosphere of a neighborhood clinic.
- Murray Office: 801-262-4662
- Riverton (Herriman) Office: 385-766-1717
- Riverton (Bangerter - Medicaid) Office: 385-533-9393