What Is Called a Dental Emergency?
Dental pain or sudden tooth problems can feel alarming, but how do you know if it’s truly an emergency? At Smyrna Dental Studio, we believe understanding what qualifies as a dental emergency can help you act fast, avoid complications, and protect your oral health.
Here’s everything you need to know about when to call your dentist immediately, and what situations can wait.
A dental emergency is any situation involving your teeth, gums, or mouth that requires immediate attention to:
Relieve severe pain
Stop bleeding
Save a tooth
Treat an infection
Prevent serious health complications
Severe Toothache
If you have intense pain that won’t go away, especially if accompanied by swelling, it could indicate an abscess or infection requiring urgent treatment.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth is completely knocked out due to trauma, seek emergency care immediately. Quick action (within 30–60 minutes) can often save the tooth.
Broken or Cracked Tooth
If a tooth is broken, chipped deeply, or cracked, it can expose nerves and cause pain or infection. Prompt treatment prevents further damage.
Lost Filling or Crown
While not always life-threatening, a lost restoration can cause pain and leave your tooth vulnerable to decay or breakage.
Abscess or Swelling
An abscess is an infection around a tooth root or gum. It can spread to other parts of your body if untreated. Seek care immediately if you notice swelling, pus, or fever.
Bleeding That Won’t Stop
Bleeding gums after brushing are usually not emergencies. However, heavy bleeding due to injury or after dental procedures requires urgent attention.
Injury to Soft Tissues
Cuts or injuries to your lips, tongue, gums, or cheeks that cause heavy bleeding should be treated promptly.
While these issues may not need immediate care, you should still schedule an appointment soon:
Mild toothache
Small, painless chips
Lost fillings without pain
Slightly loose crowns
Sensitivity to hot or cold
If you’re ever unsure, call our office. We’re happy to help you decide if you need to come in urgently or schedule at your convenience.
Ignoring dental emergencies can lead to:
Increased pain and discomfort
Worsening infections that affect overall health
Tooth loss or expensive future treatments
Emergency dental care focuses not only on immediate relief but also on preserving your teeth and health long-term.
Stay calm
Rinse your mouth with warm water
Apply a cold compress for swelling
Keep knocked-out teeth moist (milk or saliva)
Call Smyrna Dental Studio immediately for advice or an emergency appointment
Marcus W.
“I cracked a molar at dinner and the pain was unbearable. Smyrna Dental Studio saw me first thing the next morning, relieved the pain, and fixed my tooth quickly. The team was so understanding and professional.”
Rachel L.
“My daughter knocked out her front tooth while playing soccer. We called them immediately, and they saved her tooth. So grateful for their quick action!”
If you’re experiencing any symptoms listed above, don’t wait. Our emergency dentistry team is here to provide fast, compassionate, and effective care when you need it most.
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Your comfort, health, and peace of mind are our priorities, always.