
Emergency Dentist Upper East Side
Conveniently located at 121 East 60th Street, Suite 6D, New York, NY 10022 — easily accessible from across the Upper East Side and Midtown Manhattan
Safe, effective, and fast relief using advanced emergency dental systems and same-day treatment protocols
Expert care delivered by Dr. Marc Lazare, a leading NYC cosmetic and restorative dentist with decades of experience
Flexible and same-day appointment times — because dental emergencies don’t wait
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation involving the teeth, gums, or mouth that requires immediate professional attention to relieve pain, prevent infection, or save a tooth. Left untreated even for a few hours, many dental emergencies can escalate quickly — a localized infection can spread, a saveable tooth can be lost, and moderate discomfort can become severe.
Common situations that qualify as a dental emergency include:
Severe or persistent toothache — throbbing pain that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter medication
Knocked-out (avulsed) tooth — time is critical; re-implantation is most successful within 30–60 minutes
Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth — especially when sharp edges cause lacerations or the nerve is exposed
Dental abscess or infection — a potentially life-threatening condition requiring urgent drainage and antibiotic treatment
Lost crown or filling — leaves the underlying tooth vulnerable to sensitivity, damage, and bacteria
Bleeding or severely swollen gums — particularly following trauma or as a sign of acute infection
Facial or jaw trauma — injuries that may involve fractured bones or deep lacerations
If you’re experiencing any of the above, don’t wait. Call our office immediately — we prioritize emergency patients and will guide you on the right steps to take before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dentistry on the Upper East Side
How can I prevent future dental emergencies?
While not all emergencies are preventable, there are meaningful steps you can take to significantly reduce your risk:
Attend regular check-ups and cleanings every six months so problems are caught early
Wear a custom mouthguard during contact sports or recreational activities
Avoid using your teeth as tools — don’t bite nails, open packaging, or chew ice
Address teeth grinding (bruxism) with a custom night guard before it leads to cracks or fractures
Replace old, worn fillings and crowns proactively before they fail unexpectedly
Maintain excellent oral hygiene at home: brush twice daily, floss daily, and use an antibacterial rinse
If dental anxiety has kept you from attending regular care, we can help. Read our guide on ways to combat dental fears, anxieties, and phobias — our team is trained to make every visit as calm and comfortable as possible.
Can you help with dental emergencies after hours?
We understand that dental emergencies rarely happen at convenient times. Our office offers extended hours and we make every effort to accommodate same-day emergency calls during regular business hours. For guidance outside of office hours, our voicemail provides instructions and we do our best to return urgent calls promptly. If you are experiencing a severe medical emergency — such as difficulty breathing or swallowing due to swelling — please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.
Do you accept insurance or offer payment plans?
We work with many dental insurance plans and will do our best to verify your coverage before treatment begins. For procedures not covered by insurance, or for patients without coverage, we offer flexible financing options to ensure that cost is never a barrier to receiving urgent care. Please call our office and we’ll discuss your specific situation in detail.
Does insurance cover it?
In most cases this treatment is not covered by dental insurance. Dr. Lazare's team can discuss flexible payment options during your consultation.
How many treatments will I need?
Most patients begin with a single treatment and return every 3 to 6 months. Over time, the frequency of treatment often decreases as the muscle responds.
Is it safe?
Yes. Botox® has been used in medical and dental settings for decades. When administered by a qualified clinician with knowledge of facial anatomy, it has an excellent safety profile.
Will it change the appearance of my face?
In patients with significantly enlarged masseter muscles, the treatment can create a subtle slimming of the lower face over time. For most patients the change is minimal and natural-looking.
How quickly will I feel relief?
Most patients begin noticing reduced jaw tension and fewer headaches within 3 to 7 days. Full results are visible within two weeks.
Is Masseter Botox® painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort. The injections are quick and precise, and no anesthesia is required. Any mild soreness at the injection site typically resolves within 24 hours.
Is EMFACE® painful, and what is the recovery like?
EMFACE® is designed to be a comfortable, relaxing experience. Patients typically describe a warm, soothing sensation during the radiofrequency phase and a gentle pulsing feeling during the HIFES™ muscle activation. There is no pain, no needles, and no downtime whatsoever. You can return directly to work, meetings, or social engagements immediately after your session. Many patients notice an immediate sense of facial relaxation and lightness following treatment, with more visible lifting and toning developing progressively over the course of the treatment series. It is an ideal option for busy professionals in New York City who want meaningful results without disruption to their schedule.
How does EMFACE® complement cosmetic dental treatments like veneers or Invisalign®?
Facial muscle balance plays a significant role in the outcome and longevity of cosmetic dental work. When the muscles of the face and jaw are overactive, asymmetrical, or under chronic tension, they can affect bite alignment, facial symmetry, and the way a smile is framed. At our Upper East Side practice, EMFACE® is frequently recommended as a complement to Biomimetic Smile Makeovers™, porcelain veneers, Invisalign®, and full-mouth rehabilitations. By improving muscle harmony and reducing jaw tension before or alongside dental treatment, EMFACE® helps create a more balanced foundation — enhancing both the function and the aesthetic outcome of your smile.
Can EMFACE® help with TMJ pain and jaw tension?
Yes. At Lazare Biomimetic Dentistry & Smile Design, EMFACE® is offered not only as an aesthetic treatment but as a clinically thoughtful option for patients experiencing TMJ-related muscle discomfort. TMJ disorders often involve chronic overactivity of the masseter, temporalis, and surrounding jaw muscles — leading to jaw pain, teeth grinding (bruxism), clenching, tension headaches, and limited jaw mobility. EMFACE®'s synchronized radiofrequency and muscle stimulation work to improve local circulation, release chronic muscle tension, and support more balanced jaw muscle function. It is a needle-free, comfortable alternative that integrates naturally into a comprehensive TMJ care plan alongside custom nightguards, bite therapy, or infrared light treatments.
What is EMFACE® and how does it work?
EMFACE® is the first non-invasive facial treatment to simultaneously combine radiofrequency (RF) energy with HIFES™ high-intensity facial electromagnetic stimulation. The RF component gently warms the skin's deeper layers to support collagen production and circulation, while HIFES™ technology activates and tones the underlying facial muscles — lifting and defining the face without needles, incisions, or downtime. Each session lasts approximately 20 minutes, and most patients complete a series of 4–6 treatments for optimal, progressive results.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment duration depends on the complexity of your case. Simple alignment corrections with Invisalign® can be completed in as little as six months. Moderate cases typically take twelve to eighteen months. More complex bite corrections, whether with aligners or traditional braces, may take longer. At your consultation, we use digital simulation to map your treatment and give you a precise, realistic timeline before you begin.
What age is best to start orthodontic treatment?
There is no single best age for orthodontic treatment — it depends on the individual. Children can benefit from early assessment, typically around age seven, which allows us to identify developing issues and intervene before they become more complex. Teens are the most common orthodontic patients, and Invisalign® Teen is specifically designed for active younger patients. Adults represent a growing proportion of orthodontic patients, and Invisalign® is particularly well suited for adult lifestyles. At our Manhattan practice, we treat patients of all ages and tailor every plan to the person in front of us.
Is Invisalign® effective for fixing bite problems, or is it only for straightening teeth?
Invisalign® has evolved considerably and is now an effective option for treating a range of bite issues, including overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites, in addition to crowding and spacing. That said, the suitability of Invisalign® for a specific bite problem depends on its severity and underlying cause. At our Manhattan practice, Dr. Lazare evaluates each case carefully — and where Invisalign® alone is not sufficient, we maintain relationships with trusted orthodontic specialists in New York City to ensure you receive the most appropriate care.
How long does Invisalign® treatment take for adults in Manhattan?
Treatment duration depends on the complexity of the case. Minor alignment corrections can often be completed in as little as six months, while more involved cases — including significant crowding, spacing, or bite correction — typically take between twelve and eighteen months. At Lazare Biomimetic Dentistry and Smile Design, we use advanced digital scanning and treatment simulation to give you a precise estimate at your initial consultation, so you have a clear picture of your timeline before committing to treatment.
What is the difference between seeing a general dentist for Invisalign® and seeing an orthodontist in Manhattan?
Both general dentists and orthodontists can provide Invisalign® treatment, but the level of experience and the breadth of care surrounding that treatment varies significantly. Dr. Marc Lazare brings decades of cosmetic and restorative dental expertise to every Invisalign® case — meaning your alignment treatment is always considered in the context of your overall bite, jaw health, and smile aesthetics, not in isolation. For patients in Manhattan who want Invisalign® integrated with a comprehensive approach to their oral health and appearance, our Upper East Side practice offers a level of coordination that a standalone orthodontic office may not.
Can bad breath be permanently cured, or does it always come back?
When bad breath has a treatable dental cause — such as gum disease, decay, or a leaking restoration — addressing that cause directly can produce lasting results. Patients who commit to the home-care protocols and regular professional cleanings recommended by Dr. Lazare typically maintain significant, long-term improvement. Some contributing factors, such as dry mouth related to medication or certain systemic conditions, require ongoing management rather than a single cure. Our goal is always to give you the most durable outcome possible and to equip you with the knowledge to sustain it.
How many visits does it take to treat bad breath at your Manhattan dental office?
For most patients, meaningful improvement begins after the first or second visit, which typically includes a professional cleaning and a detailed diagnostic evaluation. The total number of visits depends on the underlying cause — patients with gum disease or multiple failing restorations may require additional treatment over several appointments, while those with simpler causes often see results quickly. Dr. Lazare will outline a clear, realistic treatment timeline at your consultation so you know exactly what to expect and when.
Is bad breath always a dental problem, or can it come from somewhere else in the body?
While the majority of halitosis cases originate in the mouth — from gum disease, decay, dry mouth, or bacterial buildup on the tongue — a meaningful percentage are linked to non-dental causes such as sinus or tonsil infections, acid reflux, and gastrointestinal conditions. At our Manhattan practice, we conduct a thorough evaluation to determine whether the source is oral or systemic. If we identify signs that the cause lies beyond our scope, we collaborate with the appropriate medical specialist to ensure you receive complete, coordinated care.
What causes chronic bad breath and how is it treated at a NYC dental office?
Chronic bad breath — clinically known as halitosis — is most commonly caused by bacteria accumulating on the tongue, around the gum line, and in periodontal pockets, though failing dental restorations, dry mouth, sinus conditions, and gastrointestinal issues can also play a role. At Lazare Biomimetic Dentistry and Smile Design on Manhattan's Upper East Side, Dr. Marc Lazare performs a comprehensive oral examination to identify the specific source before recommending treatment. Depending on the cause, care may include professional deep cleaning, periodontal therapy, cavity repair, tongue-cleaning protocols, or dry mouth management — all designed to eliminate odor at its source rather than mask it temporarily.
What is the difference between a dentist and a cosmetic dentist?
What is the difference between a dentist and a cosmetic dentist?
Why Do Teeth Turn Yellow?
Can Antibiotics Cause Tooth Discoloration?
Teeth Whitening Cost
Will White Spots on the Teeth Be Removed Through the Bleaching Process?
No, but they will blend in with the surrounding tooth color to become less noticeable. In certain cases, the white spots may be buffed out through enamel microabrasion techniques or troughed out and restored with a composite material to help blend.
Why Won’t Certain Dental Work Be Lightened by Teeth Whitening?
Can TMJ Disorder Be Cured?
What Is the Main Cause of TMJ?
Is My Headache Related to a TMJ Disorder?
Why Is a Night Guard the First Method of Treating TMJ Disorder?
Is TMJ Disorder a Condition That Will Last Forever?
What Should You Do if Your Jaw Starts Making a Popping Sound When You Open It?
What Are Common Tongue Cancer Symptoms?
How Is Gum Cancer Diagnosed?
What Is the Typical Oral Cancer Survival Rate?
Where Can Oral Cancer Occur?
What Types of Cancers Are Found in the Mouth and Oropharynx?
How Does Dr. Lazare Conduct an Oral Cancer Testing?
How Will My Gums Feel and Look After the Surgery?
Can a Gummy Smile Go Untreated?
When Can I Return to Work After Laser Gummy Smile Correction?
How Do You Care For Your Dentures?
Who Places the Dental Implants and Who Restores Them?
Is the Placement of Dental Implants Painful?
Why Are Dental Implants a Good Option for Missing Teeth?
Is the Dental Implant Process Time-Consuming?
What Should I Do if My Child’s Baby Tooth Gets Knocked Out (Dental Avulsion of Primary Tooth)?
What Should I Do if My Child’s Adult Tooth Gets Knocked Out (Dental Avulsion of Secondary Tooth)?
What Should You Do When a Tooth Fractures or Gets Chipped?
What Causes a Toothache?
What Should I Do if My Child’s Tooth Get Displaced Outward, Inward or to the Side (Luxation), Pushed Up (Intruded) Or Pushed Dow
What Should Be Done for a Laceration (Cut) Inside the Mouth?
What Does It Mean When a Tooth Turns Dark or Discolored?
Is infrared light therapy safe for TMJ treatment?
What are the benefits of infrared light therapy for TMJ?
How does infrared light TMJ therapy work?
How long do biomimetic fillings and reconstructions last?
Are biomimetic reconstructions suitable for everyone?
What makes biomimetic fillings different from traditional dental fillings?
Who is a good candidate for a Biomimetic Smile Makeover™?
How does a Biomimetic Smile Makeover™ differ from traditional dental restorations?
What is a Biomimetic Smile Makeover™?
Are Dental Crowns Similar to Veneers?
Is It Painful to Undergo Crown Placement?
Do Crowns Look Realistic?
How Are Dental Crowns Installed?
Is the Dental Bridge Procedure Painful?
Will I Have a Hard Time Eating With a Dental Bridge?
Are Dental Bridges Costly?
As with any custom dental care, bridges can be relatively expensive. However, their benefits typically outweigh the costs for most patients. If you are concerned about paying for a dental bridge, know that our team will work with you to design a payment plan that comfortably aligns with your budget and lifestyle needs. Regardless of whether or not you have dental insurance, we’ll work with you to ensure this procedure is affordable. We believe that finances shouldn’t prevent you from finding a solution for your missing teeth.
What Is Restorative Dentistry?
Why Choose Dr. Lazare for a Dental Bridge Procedure
Can Cold Sore Laser Treatment Prevent Future Outbreaks?
Is Cold Sore Laser Treatment Painful?
How Does Cold Sore Laser Treatment Work?
How Often Should I Have by Teeth Cleaned?
Why Should I Floss and Brush My Teeth?
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
What Are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?
What Are the Different Forms of Periodontitis?
Can Periodontal Disease Be Hereditary?
Can Vitamins and Minerals Really Help to Prevent Periodontal Disease?
What Are Dental Sealants?
Who Are Ideal Candidates for Dental Sealants?
How Are Dental Sealants Applied?
How Long Do Sealants Last For?
How Much Does It Cost to Have Your Teeth Sealed?
What Other Options Do I Have Instead of Tooth Extractions?
Do I Need to Have My Wisdom Teeth Extracted?
Can Dental Sealants Prevent Tooth Loss?
Can Biomimetic dentistry save my tooth?
How Long Should I Wait to Get a Dental Implant?
How Many People Are Born With Extra Teeth?
How Should I Take Care of My Retainer?
What Should I Do to Fix My Braces if a Bracket or Band Comes Lose or a Wire Breaks or Sticks Out?
Do I Need to Spend More Time Caring for My Teeth When Wearing Braces?
Is There Any Way to Prevent the Need for Braces?
If the Appearance of My Teeth Doesn’t Bother Me, Is There a Point in Getting Braces or Invisalign?
If you're in pain, have a broken tooth, or suspect an infection, every hour counts. Dr. Marc Lazare and his team are ready to see you today — call now for same-day relief or book your emergency appointment online. We're located in the heart of the Upper East Side and will guide you through the next steps the moment you call.
Our Office in New York City
Common Dental Emergencies We Treat
Dr. Lazare’s Upper East Side practice is equipped to handle a wide range of urgent dental situations with speed, skill, and compassion. Here are the most common emergencies we treat:
Severe Tooth Pain or Toothache
Intense, persistent tooth pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek emergency dental care. It can signal an infection, a cracked tooth, an exposed nerve, or advanced decay. Prompt diagnosis is essential — pain that seems manageable can indicate a serious underlying condition that worsens rapidly without treatment.
Broken, Chipped, or Cracked Teeth
Whether caused by a sports injury, biting down on something hard, or an accident, a broken or cracked tooth needs immediate attention. Fractures can compromise the structural integrity of the tooth and, if the nerve is exposed, cause significant pain. Depending on severity, treatment may involve dental bonding, a crown, or other restorative options.
Knocked-Out (Avulsed) Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a true dental emergency — and one where minutes matter. The sooner the tooth is reimplanted and stabilized, the better the chances of saving it. If you lose a tooth, handle it by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently without scrubbing, and either place it back in the socket or keep it moist in milk or saliva while you call us immediately.
Lost Crowns or Fillings
When a crown or filling falls out, it leaves the underlying tooth structure exposed and vulnerable to bacteria, temperature sensitivity, and further damage. While not always immediately painful, it should be treated as urgent — especially if the area is sensitive or if the crown itself can be temporarily re-seated to protect the tooth during transit to our office.
Dental Abscess or Infection
A dental abscess is a pocket of infection that forms in the tooth root or surrounding gum tissue. Symptoms include throbbing pain, facial swelling, fever, and a foul taste in the mouth. This is a serious condition — oral infections can spread to the jaw, neck, and beyond if not treated urgently. Same-day care is critical.
Bleeding or Swollen Gums
While minor gum bleeding during brushing can be common, heavy or unexplained bleeding — especially after trauma — requires prompt evaluation. Severe gum swelling may indicate an acute periodontal infection or abscess that needs immediate drainage and treatment to prevent spread.
Trauma to the Mouth or Jaw
Any significant trauma to the mouth, teeth, or jaw — from a fall, sports injury, or accident — should be evaluated as soon as possible. Even if nothing appears broken, internal damage to teeth roots, surrounding bone, or soft tissue may not be immediately visible. We use digital imaging to assess injuries thoroughly and quickly.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
The actions you take in the first minutes of a dental emergency can significantly affect the outcome of treatment. Here’s a practical guide for the most common situations — and remember, your first call should always be to our office for real-time guidance specific to your situation.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root
If dirty, rinse gently with water — do not scrub or use soap
If possible, carefully reinsert it into the socket and bite down gently on a clean cloth to hold it in place
If reinsertion isn’t possible, keep the tooth moist: store it in a small container of milk, saline, or between your cheek and gum
Call us immediately and come in within 30 minutes if at all possible
Broken or Chipped Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area
If there is bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth
Apply a cold compress to the outside of the face to reduce swelling
Save any large tooth fragments — bring them to your appointment
Avoid chewing on that side until you’ve been seen
Toothache or Suspected Abscess
Rinse with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and soothe inflammation
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever (ibuprofen is preferable for dental pain as it reduces inflammation)
Do not place aspirin directly on the tooth or gum — this can cause chemical burns to soft tissue
Do not attempt to drain a swelling yourself — call us immediately if you have facial swelling or fever
Lost Crown or Filling
If you have the crown, try to place it back over the tooth using a tiny amount of dental adhesive (available at pharmacies) or even a dab of toothpaste as a temporary measure
Do not use super glue
Avoid very hot, cold, or hard foods on that side
Call our office to arrange a same-day or next-day appointment
Bleeding Gums or Soft Tissue Injury
Apply firm, gentle pressure with a clean gauze or cloth for 10–15 minutes
Rinse with cold water
If bleeding does not stop within 15–20 minutes, or if the injury is severe, seek emergency care or go to the nearest emergency room while calling us
Whatever the situation, don’t hesitate — call our office at (212) 861-2599 for immediate guidance. Our team will walk you through the right steps and get you in as quickly as possible.
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Our Emergency Dental Care Process
When you call or walk into our Upper East Side practice with a dental emergency, our priority is simple: relieve your pain, stabilize the situation, and give you a clear path forward. Here’s exactly what to expect:
Step 1: Emergency Evaluation & Diagnosis
From the moment you arrive, our team moves quickly. Dr. Lazare conducts a thorough clinical examination of the affected area, asking targeted questions to understand your symptoms, history, and the nature of the emergency. You’ll be made comfortable immediately — pain relief is always the first priority.
Step 2: Digital X-Rays & Imaging
Where needed, we take fast, high-resolution digital X-rays or CBCT imaging to see what’s happening beneath the surface. This allows Dr. Lazare to quickly identify infections, fractures, bone involvement, or other issues not visible to the naked eye — ensuring nothing is missed and treatment is precisely targeted.
Step 3: Personalized Treatment Plan
Once the diagnosis is clear, Dr. Lazare will explain your situation in plain terms and walk you through your treatment options. Depending on the emergency, same-day treatment may include:
Composite bonding or a temporary crown for broken teeth
Emergency root canal therapy to save an infected or severely painful tooth
Abscess drainage and antibiotic prescription
Re-cementing of a lost crown or filling
Extraction as a last resort, with discussion of replacement options
Step 4: Pain Relief & Infection Management
Managing your comfort is not an afterthought — it’s woven into every step. Local anesthesia, sedation options, and appropriate medications are used to ensure you feel as comfortable as possible throughout your visit. If infection is present, we address it comprehensively to prevent spread and accelerate healing.
Step 5: Follow-Up Care & Prevention
Before you leave, you’ll receive clear aftercare instructions and, where appropriate, a prescription for any necessary medication. Dr. Lazare’s team will schedule any required follow-up appointments and discuss long-term solutions to restore the tooth fully and prevent the issue from recurring. We don’t just fix the immediate problem — we set you up for lasting oral health.
We offer same-day emergency appointments and do our best to accommodate walk-in patients experiencing acute pain or trauma. Learn more about how to get your oral health back on track after a dental emergency, and explore the 5 most common dental procedures we perform to restore healthy, beautiful smiles.
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