When it can't wait
Emergency visits
A broken tooth, a swollen face or a toothache that won't quit. Call us first; we will tell you plainly what we can do and when.
We keep time open when we can, not on every day. When you call during office hours, you talk to a person who tells you honestly whether we can see you that day. We are not an emergency room, and we say so when your problem belongs in one.
Call the office during hours: (479) 555-0100
Fort Smith Monday to Thursday, Van Buren on Fridays
For danger signs, go to an emergency room or call 911

- Swelling that spreads to your face, eye or neck, trouble breathing or swallowing, a serious blow to the head, or bleeding that won't stop needs emergency care now. Go to an emergency room or call 911. If a tooth is knocked out or broken, call our office right away.
What to do first
A knocked-out tooth
Call us right away. Pick the tooth up by the crown, not the root, and don't scrub it. Keep it moist in milk, and bring it with you.
A broken or cracked tooth
Rinse with warm water and save any pieces. Cold on the cheek can help with swelling. Call us and we will tell you when to come in.
A toothache
Rinse with warm water and floss gently in case something is stuck. Don't put aspirin on the gum. Call us; a toothache that wakes you or comes with swelling should be seen soon.
Swelling or a fever
Swelling that stays near the tooth is a reason to call us the same day. Swelling that spreads to your face, eye or neck, or trouble breathing or swallowing, needs an emergency room or 911.
Questions about emergencies
Can you see me today?
Sometimes. Call as soon as you can during office hours and we will tell you honestly. If we can't, we tell you where to go instead.
What if it is a weekend or night?
The office is closed, and nobody here answers the phone. If it is an emergency, go to an emergency room or call 911. Call us the next morning.
Will I get a written estimate for an emergency visit?
Yes. After we find out what is wrong, you get the estimate in writing before treatment, except where the tooth can't wait.
Call the office
We answer during office hours and will tell you what we can do.
Provided by a general dentist, Dr. Ivy Kimbrough, DDS.