Do I Have a Dental Emergency?

What Counts as a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth, gums, or jaw that needs urgent care to stop pain, prevent infection, or save a tooth. Some issues are clearly emergencies, like a knocked-out tooth. Others, like a cracked tooth or swelling, can be harder to judge.

In general, if you have significant pain, bleeding, swelling, or trauma to the mouth, it’s best to treat it as urgent.

Signs You May Have a Dental Emergency

If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should contact our emergency dentist as soon as possible.

Severe Tooth Pain

Sharp, throbbing, or persistent tooth pain is one of the most common signs of a dental emergency. It may indicate an infection, deep cavity, cracked tooth, or abscess. Pain that wakes you up at night or doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medication should never be ignored.

Swelling in the Gums, Face, or Jaw

Swelling can be a sign of infection, and dental infections can spread quickly. If you notice facial swelling, a pimple-like bump on the gums, or tenderness near a tooth, schedule urgent dental care immediately. Swelling paired with fever is especially concerning.

A Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. If possible, gently place the tooth back into the socket or store it in milk, and seek care immediately. The sooner you get treatment, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

A Cracked or Broken Tooth

A chipped tooth may not be an emergency, but a large crack or break often is, especially if it causes pain or exposes the inner tooth. Cracks can worsen fast, and early treatment may prevent the need for more extensive procedures.

Uncontrolled Bleeding

Bleeding that doesn’t stop, especially after an injury, should be evaluated right away. While mild bleeding after flossing can happen with gum inflammation, heavy or ongoing bleeding is not normal.

Lost Filling or Crown

A lost crown or filling may not seem urgent at first, but it can leave the tooth exposed and vulnerable to damage or infection. If the tooth is painful or sensitive, it should be treated quickly.

What’s Not Usually an Emergency?

Some dental issues can often wait for a regular appointment, including:

• Minor tooth sensitivity
• Small chips with no pain
• Mild gum irritation

However, if you’re uncertain, it’s always better to call and ask than to wait and risk a bigger problem.

What to Do While You Wait for Treatment

If you can’t be seen immediately, here are a few safe steps you can take:

• Rinse gently with warm salt water
• Use a cold compress for swelling
• Take over-the-counter pain relief as directed
• Avoid chewing on the affected side
• Keep the area clean and avoid sugary foods
• Never place aspirin directly on the gums, as it can burn the tissue.

When in Doubt, Call Us

Dental emergencies can be stressful, painful, and scary. But you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, trauma, or anything that feels urgent, don’t wait. Contact our emergency dentist in Lilburn and Kennesaw, GA, for guidance, fast care, and the relief you deserve. Contact Dentistry & Orthodontics at Kennesaw Point today.