Dental issues are often inconvenient, but how do you know when you’re dealing with a true dental emergency? While some problems can wait a few days for a scheduled appointment, others require immediate attention to prevent permanent damage, relieve severe pain, or stop infections from spreading. Here’s how to tell if you’ve got a dental emergency on your hands—and what to do next.
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Severe Tooth Pain That Won’t Go Away
Pain is your body’s way of signalling that something’s wrong. If you’re experiencing sudden, intense, or throbbing pain that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter medication, it may point to an underlying issue such as an abscess, infected tooth, or severe decay. Ignoring it can worsen the condition or lead to complications that are more difficult—and costly—to treat.
A Knocked-Out Tooth
If you’ve had a tooth knocked out due to trauma or an accident, it’s critical to seek help within 30 minutes to an hour. The faster you act, the greater the chances that the tooth can be put back and saved. Pick up the tooth by the crown (not touching the root), gently rinse it, and try placing it back into the socket or in a container of milk or saliva until you reach a dentist.
Cracked or Broken Teeth
A chipped tooth isn’t always an emergency, but a tooth that’s cracked or broken with pain, bleeding, or sharp edges can be. This type of damage can expose nerves or lead to infections, so it’s essential not to wait too long to seek professional advice. Even minor fractures can worsen without timely treatment.
Swelling or Abscesses
Swelling in the mouth, jaw, or face, especially when accompanied by fever, pus, or a bad taste, may point to an abscess or infection. These can spread rapidly to other areas of the body, posing a serious health risk. Swelling that impacts your breathing or swallowing should be treated as a medical emergency and may need immediate hospital care.
Lost Fillings or Crowns
While not always painful at first, losing a filling or crown exposes the sensitive part of your tooth and makes it vulnerable to damage or infection. If you can’t get a quick dental appointment, use dental cement from a pharmacy as a temporary fix—but be sure to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Bleeding That Won’t Stop
Some minor gum bleeding can occur after flossing or brushing too hard, but if you’re experiencing persistent bleeding after trauma or surgery (like a tooth extraction), it may signal something more serious. Continuous bleeding for more than 10-15 minutes requires urgent attention.
What to Do Next
If you’re facing any of the above symptoms, it’s best not to wait. Fast treatment can save your teeth and prevent further health issues. For those in West Sussex, you can access emergency dental services with Bognor Regis Dental to get rapid, professional care when you need it most.
Final Thoughts
Dental emergencies can be stressful, but recognising the signs and knowing when to get help can make all the difference. If in doubt, it’s always better to call your dentist and describe your symptoms. Acting quickly can mean the difference between saving a tooth and losing one—so trust your instincts and seek professional care when necessary.