Myth: If the pain goes away, the emergency is over
Fact: Pain that fades can mean the nerve inside the tooth has died while infection continues to spread. It is important to be seen even if the pain disappears on its own.
Our services · Merrick, NY
Emergency dentistry in Merrick, NY
Dental emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time. At Modern Dental Hub in Merrick, NY, we offer prompt, gentle care for toothaches, broken teeth, swelling and other urgent dental problems, with same-day visits when possible. Call (516) 855-6855 as soon as a problem starts, and we will tell you what to do next.
- Digital X-rays and 3D imagingModern diagnostics for precise, conservative treatment plans
- Same-day emergency visitsWhen possible, we see dental emergencies the same day
- Most major PPO plans acceptedOur office verifies your benefits before treatment
- Evening hours Tue–ThuOpen until 7 PM three days a week, 10–5 on Mondays and Fridays
Who emergency dentistry can help
Call us the same day if you have any of the following:
- Severe toothache. Persistent or intense pain can signal an infection or deep decay.
- Knocked-out or loose tooth. A true emergency; quick action greatly improves the chance of saving it.
- Broken, cracked or chipped tooth. A fractured tooth is prone to further damage or infection if left untreated.
- Swelling or abscess. Facial swelling, a bump on the gum or a bad taste in the mouth can indicate an infection that needs urgent care.
- Lost filling or crown. The exposed tooth is sensitive and can break further.
When in doubt, call and we will help you decide whether you need to be seen today.
What emergency dentistry is
Emergency dentistry is care that cannot wait for a routine appointment. The goal is simple: stop the pain, control any damage and save the tooth whenever possible. Many dental emergencies get worse the longer they go untreated.
At Modern Dental Hub, an emergency visit focuses on finding the cause quickly, giving you relief and making a clear plan to restore the tooth. We have digital X-rays and 3D imaging on site, so we can see what is happening below the gum line during the same visit. Dr. Jonathan Zaika offers complimentary consultations for dental emergencies.
What to expect
After your emergency visit, your immediate pain or bleeding has been addressed and the tooth stabilized. Depending on the situation, we may place a temporary or permanent filling, treat an infection, re-cement a crown or reposition and splint a displaced tooth.
Sometimes a single visit resolves everything. Other times we relieve pain and stabilize the tooth first, then complete treatment at a follow-up appointment. A badly infected tooth may need root canal treatment, a broken tooth may need a crown, and a tooth that cannot be saved may need an extraction followed by a replacement option. We explain each path and its cost before you decide. Mild soreness, swelling or sensitivity for a day or two after treatment is normal.
How it works, step by step
Before you arrive, a few simple steps can protect the tooth and ease discomfort:
- Call us first. We can give you guidance over the phone and prepare for your arrival.
- For a knocked-out tooth: hold it by the crown, not the root, rinse it gently without scrubbing and try to place it back in the socket. If that is not possible, keep it in a cup of milk and bring it with you.
- For bleeding and swelling: apply gentle pressure with clean gauze, and hold a cold compress on the outside of the cheek.
- For pain: an over-the-counter pain reliever can help. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum.
At the office:
Quick assessment. We ask what happened, check the area and take digital X-rays or a 3D scan when needed to see the full picture.
Relief first. We numb the area with local anesthetic. Most patients feel pressure rather than pain during treatment.
Stabilize the tooth. Depending on the problem, we place a temporary or permanent restoration, re-cement a crown, splint a loose tooth or begin root canal treatment.
Plan the follow-up. We explain what was done, what to expect over the next few days and what further treatment the tooth needs.
Aftercare and recovery
- Follow your instructions. Take any prescribed medication exactly as directed and finish the full course of antibiotics if you were given them.
- Eat gently. Stick to soft foods and chew on the opposite side until your dentist says it is safe to return to normal.
- Keep it clean. Continue brushing and flossing carefully to prevent infection.
- Attend your follow-up. Emergency care is often only the first step; return for any recommended visit so that we can complete treatment.
- Call if symptoms worsen. Increasing pain, swelling that spreads, fever or bleeding that does not stop can mean you need additional care.
Cost, insurance and payment
The cost of an emergency visit depends on what the tooth needs. After we examine the tooth and take X-rays, we explain the options and the cost of each before treatment begins.
Modern Dental Hub accepts 24 dental insurance plans. Benefits and coverage should be verified with the office before treatment; see the list on our insurance page. Flexible payment options are available for patients without insurance. Contact the office or visit our payment options page to discuss available arrangements.
Current offer
New Patient Special
Exam, consultation and 3 X-rays. Contact the office to confirm eligibility and offer terms.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as a dental emergency?
Severe pain, bleeding, swelling, a knocked-out or broken tooth, or a lost filling or crown should all be treated as emergencies. A problem that is uncomfortable but stable, such as a small chip that does not hurt, can usually be seen at the next available appointment.
Can you see me the same day?
We make every effort to see dental emergencies as quickly as possible, often the same day. Same-day visits depend on the schedule, so we cannot promise one in every case. Call (516) 855-6855 and we will find the soonest available time.
My tooth was knocked out. Can it be saved?
Often, yes, if you act fast. A tooth replanted within the first hour has a good chance of being saved. Call us immediately, keep the tooth moist in milk or in your cheek and come straight to the office.
What should I do for a severe toothache right now?
Rinse with warm salt water, gently floss to remove any trapped food and take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed on the package. Then call us so that we can see you as soon as possible.
Is the emergency consultation free?
Dr. Jonathan Zaika offers complimentary consultations for dental emergencies. Ask about it when you call. We explain the cost of any recommended treatment before we begin.
Myths and facts
Myth: A small chip or lost filling can wait indefinitely
Fact: Even minor damage exposes the tooth to decay and breakage. Prompt repair is faster, simpler and less invasive than waiting until it worsens.
Myth: You should go to the ER for any dental emergency
Fact: Hospitals can manage pain and infection but usually cannot treat the tooth itself. A dentist is the right choice for saving and repairing teeth, unless the injury affects breathing, swallowing or the jaw.
Have a question about emergency dental care? Our team will explain your options after an examination.
Our dentists
The dentists who provide this care
-
Dr. Margarita Kaus
Education and training
New York University, Doctor of Dental Surgery; Northwell Health (Residency)
Read more about Dr. Margarita Kaus -
Dr. Isaak Rubinov
Education and training
New York University, Doctor of Dental Surgery; Kings County Hospital Center, Residency in General Practice
Read more about Dr. Isaak Rubinov -
Dr. Jonathan Zaika
Education and training
New York University College of Dentistry, Doctor of Dental Surgery
Read more about Dr. Jonathan Zaika -
Dr. Stanley Faynblut
Education and training
Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine, Doctor of Dental Surgery (Summa Cum Laude); NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health, General Practice Residency
Read more about Dr. Stanley Faynblut
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Talk with us about emergency dental care.
Book online or call the office. A booking request is confirmed by our front desk; our team will contact you to confirm the time.
Get in touch
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- Merrick, Long Island
- 235 Sunrise Highway
Merrick, NY 11566 - Hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday – Thursday
- 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday
- Closed
- Phone
- (516) 855-6855