Dental problems can be uncomfortable, but not all require immediate attention. Some issues can wait for a scheduled appointment, while others call for urgent care to prevent further complications or ease severe pain. Knowing when to seek urgent dental care can help you protect your oral health and avoid bigger problems down the road.
Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain
A toothache that doesn’t go away, or one that becomes intense, should never be ignored. Persistent pain can be a sign of a serious issue such as tooth decay, an infection, or an abscess. Without treatment, these conditions can worsen and even spread to other areas of the body. If over-the-counter pain relief isn’t helping, it’s time to see a dentist urgently.
Knocked-Out or Loose Teeth
If a permanent tooth has been knocked out, quick action is critical. Getting dental care within an hour offers the best chance of saving the tooth. Gently place the tooth back in the socket if possible, or keep it in milk or saliva until you reach your dentist. Similarly, if a tooth suddenly feels loose without an obvious cause, it may point to gum disease or trauma, and urgent evaluation is needed.
Broken or Cracked Teeth
Not all chips and cracks are emergencies, but if the damage is large, painful, or exposes the tooth’s inner layers, you should seek urgent care. Broken teeth are more vulnerable to infection and further breakage, so prompt treatment can save the tooth and reduce your discomfort.
Swelling in the Face or Gums
Swelling, especially when accompanied by pain or fever, may signal an infection or abscess. Dental infections can spread quickly, sometimes becoming life-threatening if they move into the jaw, neck, or bloodstream. If you notice swelling in your gums, face, or jaw, call your dentist right away.
Lost Restorations
Losing a crown, filling, or bridge can leave your tooth unprotected and sensitive. While it may not always feel like an emergency, seeking urgent care is smart to prevent further damage or infection. Your dentist can replace or temporarily restore the lost piece until a permanent fix is arranged.
Bleeding That Won’t Stop
If your gums or mouth won’t stop bleeding after an injury, extraction, or spontaneously, urgent dental care is needed. Persistent bleeding could indicate trauma, infection, or an underlying health condition that requires immediate attention.
Dental emergencies can be stressful but knowing when to act can make all the difference. Severe pain, knocked-out teeth, significant swelling, or uncontrolled bleeding are all clear signs you should seek urgent dental care. When in doubt, call your dentist—they can advise you on whether to come in right away or schedule a regular appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Abdel A. More is a graduate of the International Dental Program at Virginia Commonwealth University. To stay current in his field, today, he holds memberships in the American Dental Association and the North Carolina Dental Association. Have you found yourself in a dental emergency situation? Don’t hesitate – Dr. More and our expert team can help! Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth or severe, persistent pain in your mouth, we’ll take the very best care of you possible. Schedule an appointment with us online or call (704) 844-0556.