What is Emergency Dental Care? Where to Go for a Dental Emergency

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any issue involving your teeth and surrounding tissues that requires immediate dental care. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, it’s important to have it treated by a professional as soon as possible.

What is considered a dental emergency?

Some common dental emergencies may include:

• Severe tooth pain: Intense or persistent tooth pain may signal that you have an infection, advanced tooth decay, or nerve damage. If the pain doesn't improve with over-the-counter medication, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible.
• Knocked-out tooth: A knocked-out tooth requires immediate attention. By acting fast, you can increase the chances of saving your tooth.
• Cracked or broken tooth: A cracked or broken tooth can expose sensitive nerves and increase your risk of infection. Prompt care can help prevent further damage and potentially save your tooth.
• Swelling: Swelling in the gums, jaw, or face may indicate a dental infection. Without treatment, infections can spread and lead to more serious health problems.
• Dental abscess: A dental abscess is a painful infection near the tooth root or gums. Symptoms may include swelling, severe pain, fever and a bad taste in your mouth.
• Loose or partially dislodged tooth: If your tooth becomes loose after an injury, your dentist can help stabilize it before it falls out.
• Lost or broken dental restoration: A lost crown, filling or bridge can leave your tooth vulnerable to damage or infection, so it’s important to address it quickly.
• Severe bleeding or soft tissue injury: Cuts or injuries to the gums, lips or cheeks that don’t stop bleeding may require urgent care.

What to do if you need emergency dental care.

Every dental emergency is different, and there are no one-size-fits-all solutions. With that being said, here’s a general guideline for where you should go based on the dental issue you’re facing:

• Go to the hospital if you think you may have a fractured jaw, severe facial trauma, uncontrolled bleeding or difficulty breathing. If any of these events occur, it's best to call 911 and get help as soon as possible.
• Visit your dentist if you're experiencing severe tooth pain or a dental injury that isn't life-threatening and you can breathe normally. Your dentist can evaluate the problem and provide the appropriate emergency treatment.