William H. Smythe DMD in Louisville provides same-day emergency dental care for severe toothache, broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, abscesses, and traumatic injuries. Dr. William H. Smythe IV reserves time every day for emergency patients, so you can get relief fast — not wait days for an appointment. If you are in pain or have dental trauma, call (502) 448-2876 right away. We serve patients from Louisville, across Louisville and Jefferson County, KY.
⚠⚠⚠ If you are experiencing severe pain, bleeding, or a medical emergency, please dial 911. ⚠⚠⚠
Call William H. Smythe DMD immediately if you have any of these:
For a knocked-out tooth: rinse gently (do not scrub), place it back in the socket if possible, or keep it in milk or saliva. Then call (502) 448-2876 right away.
At William H. Smythe DMD, emergency patients are seen the same day whenever possible. Here is exactly what happens from the moment you call.
"I don't have insurance — can I still come?"
Yes. William H. Smythe DMD sees uninsured emergency patients and offers transparent pricing and financing. Pain relief should never be blocked by cost.
"Can't I just wait until my regular dentist opens?"
Some emergencies (broken tooth with no pain) can wait. Others (knocked-out tooth, severe swelling, uncontrolled bleeding) can't. Call us — we triage by phone so you know what to do next.
"Will I need an extraction?"
Not necessarily. Dr. William H. Smythe IV's goal is to save the tooth whenever possible — root canal therapy, splinting, and reattachment are often options. Extraction is the last resort, not the first.
Dental emergencies are time-sensitive. Waiting even 24 hours with some conditions can dramatically change the outcome.
Emergency Dental Care at William H. Smythe DMD is delivered by Dr. William H. Smythe IV — a third-generation Louisville dentist practicing at the same Dixie Highway location his father opened in 1973. Treatment decisions are based on what is right for the individual patient, not on a one-size-fits-all protocol.
Our office uses modern diagnostic tools — including digital X-rays for low radiation exposure and detailed visualization — and emphasizes thorough exam, conservative treatment planning, and clear communication with every patient about their options before treatment begins.
Medically reviewed by Dr. William H. Smythe IV, DMD · University of Louisville School of Dentistry, 1996 · Kentucky dental license #3628 · William H. Smythe DMD, 5141 Dixie Highway, Louisville, KY 40216 · same location since 1973.
Cost depends on the size of the case, the materials chosen, and your individual diagnosis. Most cases fall into the low-to-mid four figures per tooth or area treated. We give a written estimate before any work begins.
Insurance: we accept most insurance plans and file claims on your behalf, so you do not have to chase reimbursement. We verify benefits before treatment and explain what is covered.
Payment options: Mastercard, Visa, American Express, Discover, cash, and CareCredit financing — which lets patients spread treatment cost across monthly payments.
Most patients tell us the anticipation was worse than the procedure itself. Treatment is performed under local anesthesia — you will feel the brief pinch of the numbing injection, then nothing more than light pressure during the work itself. If anxiety is keeping you from treatment, talk to us at the consultation; we will pace the visit and explain every step in advance.
William H. Smythe DMD has cared for Louisville families from the same Dixie Highway location since 1973. The office is on Dixie Highway in South End Louisville, with easy access from the Watterson Expressway (I-264) and I-64 — making the drive in from Shively, Pleasure Ridge Park, Valley Station, Iroquois Park, Auburndale, Beechmont, Fairdale, the South End, and across Jefferson County straightforward.
Our practice is family-friendly and accessible — free on-site parking, a wheelchair ramp, and an elevator to our second-floor office at Suite 202. Office hours are Monday through Wednesday 9 AM to 4 PM, Thursday 9 AM to 2 PM, and Friday 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM. To schedule, request an appointment online or call (502) 448-2876.
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute dental or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Delaying emergency dental care can lead to infection spreading, abscess, permanent tooth loss, and in severe cases systemic complications. Even with prompt treatment, some damaged teeth cannot be saved. Consult Dr. William H. Smythe IV or a qualified dental professional regarding any questions about your oral health. Individual results may vary.