Toothaches can be annoying. But how do you know when it’s more than “just a toothache”? Some dental problems can’t wait. They need immediate care, or they can quickly get worse.
That’s where emergency dental care comes in. Whether it’s pain, swelling, or something just doesn’t feel right, knowing the warning signs can save you from bigger issues later.
Here are 7 clear signs that you need to call an emergency dentist right away—not next week.
What Constitutes Emergency Dental Care?
1. Unbearable Tooth Pain
Mild toothaches happen. But if you’re dealing with pain that keeps you up at night or stops you from eating or talking, that’s a red flag. It might be an infection, nerve damage, or a severe cavity.
Ignoring the pain won’t make it go away—it’ll likely get worse.
2. Swollen Jaw or Face
Swelling around your jaw or cheeks usually points to an infection, especially if it comes with pain or a bad taste in your mouth. Infections can spread quickly and even affect your breathing or overall health.
If your face looks puffy and feels tender, don’t wait. Get help now.
3. A Knocked-Out Tooth
If your tooth gets knocked out from a fall or injury, time is everything. You only have about 30 minutes to 1 hour to save the tooth.
Try placing the tooth in milk or gently back into its socket, and get to the dentist immediately. Waiting too long makes it almost impossible to save.
4. Bleeding That Won’t Stop
A little bleeding after brushing isn’t unusual. But if your gums or mouth won’t stop bleeding—especially after an injury or dental procedure—it’s serious.
Uncontrolled bleeding is one of the top reasons people need emergency dental care in Fort Worth.
5. Sudden Sensitivity or Pain When Biting
Have you ever bit down and felt a sharp jolt of pain? That could mean a cracked tooth or a deep cavity. Sudden sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweets is also a warning that something’s going wrong inside your tooth.
If the pain is sharp or doesn’t go away, don’t put it off.
6. Loose or Broken Dental Work
Did your crown pop off while eating? Or maybe a filling fell out? While it might not seem urgent, exposed areas of your teeth can become vulnerable fast—leading to pain or even infections.
Quick repair can prevent a bigger (and more expensive) problem later.
7. Unpleasant Taste or Bad Breath That Doesn’t Go Away
If you’ve noticed a constant bad taste in your mouth or breath that won’t go away even after brushing, it could be a sign of infection or decay below the gumline. This is especially important if it’s paired with swelling or pain.
Don’t just mask it with mouthwash—get checked out.
According to the American Dental Association, nearly 2 million emergency dental visits are made each year in the U.S.—many due to untreated issues that have become urgent.
This shows just how common it is for people to ignore early signs—until it’s too painful (or costly) to wait any longer.
Why Quick Action Matters
Delaying care can turn a minor issue into a major one—fast. Infections can spread, damaged teeth can become unsalvageable, and pain can disrupt your daily life.
Emergency dental care isn’t just about fixing teeth—it’s about protecting your overall health.
What To Do If You Experience Any of These Signs?
- Don’t wait: Call your dental office right away.
- Explain your symptoms clearly so they can prepare for your visit.
- Follow instructions: If the dentist gives you any guidance before you arrive, like preserving a tooth or managing swelling, follow it carefully.
Your mouth is trying to tell you something. If you’re experiencing any of these 7 signs, don’t wait it out—Call our emergency dentist and get emergency dental care now. Acting quickly can save your tooth, your smile, and even your health.
