It's 10 p.m. on a Saturday. Your tooth has been throbbing for hours. You're wondering: Is this really an emergency? Can it wait until Monday? The answer isn't always obvious. Some dental issues can safely wait for a regular appointment. Others need attention sooner—and ignoring them can lead to serious complications, more extensive treatment, and unnecessary suffering. Here are the warning signs that warrant an emergency dental visit, and why taking them seriously matters.
Severe or Uncontrolled Pain
Pain that's intense, persistent, or not relieved by over-the-counter medication is a signal that something significant is going on. It could be an abscess, an infected tooth, or another condition that won't improve on its own. "Toughing it out" rarely works—and it can allow the problem to worsen. If you're in significant pain, get evaluated. Emergency dental care exists for exactly this reason.
Swelling in the Face, Jaw, or Gums
Swelling can indicate an infection—and dental infections can spread. Facial swelling, especially if it's growing or affecting your ability to breathe or swallow, is a serious sign. So is swelling that's accompanied by fever or a feeling of illness. Don't wait. Infections can progress quickly, and prompt treatment can prevent them from becoming life-threatening.
A Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth has been completely knocked out, time is critical. The sooner you get to a dentist, the better the chance of saving the tooth. Handle the tooth by the crown (the part that's usually visible), not the root. Rinse it gently with water if it's dirty, but don't scrub it. Try to place it back in the socket if possible, or keep it in milk or in your mouth (between cheek and gums) to keep it moist. Get to a dentist within an hour for the best outcome.
A Loose or Displaced Tooth After Trauma
A tooth that's been pushed out of position, loosened, or fractured by trauma needs evaluation. Even if it doesn't hurt much yet, the supporting structures may be damaged. Stabilizing the tooth and assessing the damage early can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Uncontrolled Bleeding
Some bleeding after an extraction or injury is normal. But if bleeding doesn't stop with steady pressure after 15–20 minutes, or if it's heavy and continuous, you need help. Apply gauze or a clean cloth, bite down firmly, and contact your dentist or seek emergency care.
Signs of Abscess or Infection
An abscess is a pocket of infection that can form at the root of a tooth or in the gums. Signs include:
- Severe, throbbing pain
- Swelling
- A pimple-like bump on the gums
- Foul taste or odor in the mouth
- Fever or general malaise
Abscesses don't resolve on their own. They require drainage and often antibiotics. Left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body. This is not something to postpone.
Lost or Damaged Restoration With Pain
A lost filling or crown might not always be urgent—but if the underlying tooth is sensitive, exposed, or painful, it should be addressed soon. The tooth is vulnerable without its restoration, and delay can lead to further damage or infection.
When in Doubt, Call
If you're unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call your dentist. Many practices have after-hours contact information or can direct you to emergency care. It's better to get reassurance—or timely treatment—than to wait and regret it. Your oral health, and in some cases your overall health, may depend on it.