New Patient Special
Your Trusted Emergency Dentist in Chapel Hill
Personal Attention
We prioritize emergency cases and offer same-day appointments because we know dental pain doesn't follow business hours—when you call in pain, we make room in our schedule.
Fast Pain Relief
Using advanced diagnostic technology and proven techniques, we focus on stopping your pain first, then addressing the underlying problem to prevent future emergencies.
Get Back to Your Day
Our efficient approach means accurate diagnosis and effective treatment so you can return to work, family, and normal activities without ongoing pain or worry.
Common Dental Emergencies We Treat
Dental emergencies come in many forms, but they all share one thing in common: they need immediate professional attention. Trying to "tough it out" or wait until Monday often makes the problem worse and more expensive to fix:
- Severe tooth pain or facial swelling that interferes with eating, sleeping, or daily activities
- Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth from accidents, sports injuries, or biting something hard
- Lost or loose fillings and crowns that leave your tooth vulnerable to further damage
- Knocked-out teeth that may be saveable if treated within the first hour
- Dental abscesses and infections that can spread and become life-threatening without treatment
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Call Our Office Immediately
We answer emergency calls and will guide you through immediate care while scheduling your urgent appointment.
Describe Your Symptoms Clearly
Tell us exactly what happened, where it hurts, and how severe the pain is so we can prepare for your arrival.
Follow Our Immediate Care Instructions
We'll give you specific steps to take at home to manage pain and protect the injured area until you arrive.
Come in as Scheduled
Don't delay your appointment even if the pain subsides—underlying problems need professional treatment.
What to Expect During Your Emergency Visit
Immediate Assessment and Diagnosis
We'll quickly evaluate your condition using digital X-rays and our intraoral camera to see exactly what's causing your pain and determine the best treatment approach.
Effective Pain Management
We offer multiple comfort options including local anesthesia and nitrous oxide to ensure you're completely comfortable during treatment—no one should have to endure dental pain.
Clear Treatment Planning
Dr. Shen will explain what's wrong, what treatment options you have, and what we recommend for both immediate relief and long-term oral health.
Complete Care Instructions
You'll leave with detailed aftercare instructions, any necessary prescriptions, and follow-up appointments scheduled to ensure proper healing.
The Peachy Smiles Difference
Extended Hours & Saturday Appointments
We know you’re busy. Our office is open one Saturday per month for your convenience – because your schedule matters.
Same-Day Emergency Care
Dental emergencies don't wait, and neither do we. Call us to get the care you need when you need it.
Comforting Amenities & Atmosphere
We believe going to the dentist shouldn't feel like a chore. Wireless headphones, TVs, warm blankets, and scented towels – we've thought of everything.
A Team That Genuinely Cares
From the moment you walk in until you leave with a smile, every interaction is designed around your comfort and care.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I go to the hospital emergency room instead?
Go to the ER for severe facial trauma, uncontrolled bleeding, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or high fever—for dental-specific pain and injuries, we're better equipped to help you.
What if I can't afford emergency treatment right now?
We offer CareCredit financing and multiple payment options because dental emergencies shouldn't go untreated due to cost—we'll work with you to find a solution.
How long will my emergency appointment take?
Most emergency visits take 30-60 minutes depending on the complexity, but we focus on efficient care that thoroughly addresses your problem.
Do you treat children's dental emergencies too?
Absolutely—we provide gentle emergency care for patients of all ages and have experience helping anxious children through dental emergencies.
What emergency services can you actually provide in your office?
We can treat severe pain, repair broken teeth, replace lost fillings, drain infections, and handle trauma-related injuries—most emergency situations can be resolved in our office.
How can I manage severe tooth pain until I can get to your office?
Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, take over-the-counter pain medication as directed on the package, and avoid very hot or cold foods that might increase sensitivity.
Will my insurance cover emergency treatment?
Most dental insurance plans cover emergency care, and we accept all major PPO plans—we'll handle the insurance paperwork so you can focus on getting better.
What should I do if my tooth gets knocked out?
Keep the tooth moist by placing it back in the socket if possible, or in milk, and call us immediately—we have the best chance of saving it if you're seen within an hour.
What actually qualifies as a dental emergency?
Any dental problem causing severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, facial swelling, or trauma to your teeth or mouth needs immediate attention—don't wait to see if it gets better.
Can you really see me the same day I call?
Yes, we reserve appointment slots specifically for emergencies and will make room in our schedule when you're in pain.
What happens if I need emergency dental care?
We strive to accommodate same-day emergency appointments and offer extended hours for urgent dental needs.
