What is Considered a Dental Emergency?

December 29, 2021

If you experience tissue injury or accompanying facial pain, then it may be a dental emergency! An abscess or infection can be potentially life-threatening. For severe pain in the mouth, you should see a dentist immediately to have the tooth examined and treatment determined.

Still, not every dental pain should be considered an emergency. These questions can help you decide:

Do you have severe pain? Severe pain suggests an emergency
Have you lost a tooth? Sometimes a tooth can be saved, but emergency attention is required.
Do you have loose teeth? An adult tooth that is loose or has fallen out, even in absence of pain, is a problem.
Do you have an infection? Treatment of an abscess or infection should not wait because it can be life-threatening. Swelling about the face or bumps on your gums may be an indication of infection.
Are you bleeding from the mouth? Bleeding is a potential sign of an emergency.