Emergency Dentist in Chattanooga: When to Call & What to Expect

Published: January 15, 2026
By: Dr. Nate Henderson & Dr. Sean Fitzhugh
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Dental emergencies don't wait for convenient times. Whether it's severe tooth pain at midnight, a knocked-out tooth during a weekend game, or a broken crown on a holiday, knowing when to seek emergency dental care in Chattanooga can save your tooth and relieve your pain fast.

At Harrison Family Dentistry, we provide same-day emergency dental care for patients throughout Chattanooga, Hixson, Ooltewah, and surrounding areas. We prioritize urgent cases to ensure you aren't left waiting in pain.

Emergency Policy: If you are in pain, we work to see you the same day—often within hours. Don't risk permanent damage by waiting; call us immediately.


What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

Not every dental issue is a crisis, but certain situations demand a same-day visit to prevent infection or tooth loss. Here is how to tell the difference:

True Emergencies (Call Now)

  • Knocked-Out Tooth: We have a 30-60 minute window to potentially save the tooth.
  • Severe, Throbbing Pain: This often indicates an abscess or deep infection requiring an emergency root canal.
  • Facial Swelling: Swelling in the gums or jaw can be a sign of a serious infection.

Urgent Issues (Call Today)

  • Broken or Cracked Tooth: Exposed nerves are painful and vulnerable to bacteria. We can often fix these with same-day CEREC crowns.
  • Lost Filling or Crown: Your tooth structure is exposed and needs protection to avoid decay.

What to Do Before You Arrive

If you have a knocked-out tooth, handle it by the crown (the top), not the root. Rinse it gently with water and try to place it back in the socket. If it won't stay, keep it in a container of milk or saliva until you reach our office.


Dr. Nate Henderson Dr. Sean Fitzhugh

Dr. Nate Henderson & Dr. Sean Fitzhugh

The clinical team at Harrison Family Dentistry is dedicated to providing high-quality, functional dental care to the Chattanooga community. With a focus on preventive health and patient education, they empower families to achieve lifelong oral wellness through advanced technology and a gentle, personalized approach.

Meet the Doctors →

Emergency Dentist in Chattanooga

In pain? Don't wait. Call Harrison Family Dentistry now for same-day emergency care.

Call (423) 344-3884 Emergency Appointment

Harrison Family Dentistry
6005 Century Oaks Dr., Suite 100
Chattanooga, TN 37416


Frequently Asked Questions

ER vs. Emergency Dentist: Where should I go?
For dental issues like a broken tooth or abscess, an emergency dentist is better. ERs typically cannot perform dental procedures and may only provide pain medication before referring you to a dentist. Only go to the ER if you have uncontrolled bleeding or swelling that affects your breathing.

How much does an emergency visit cost?
An emergency exam and X-ray are usually very affordable. We provide transparent pricing and will discuss the cost of the necessary treatment (filling, extraction, or root canal) before we begin. We also offer Cherry Financing for unexpected costs.