Dental 911: What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

When it comes to dental 911, you may be wondering to yourself: what is considered a dental emergency? If so, take a look at everything you need here.

In a perfect world, adults visit their dentist every six months for a routine cleaning and check-up.

While there's no scientific evidence to suggest this is the ideal timeline, regular dental check-ups can help detect and prevent major issues. 

Routine visits may also prevent an unwanted and unexpected dental emergency. While some oral issues can wait until your next dental visit or at least the next morning, some dental emergencies need immediate attention.



Read on to learn what constitutes a dental emergency and what emergency dental services are available to you.

What is a Dental Emergency?

discomfort but don't always need immediate attention.

If you're experiencing extreme pain, bleeding from the mouth, or a lost tooth, you may be facing a dental emergency.

Dental issues that occur outside of normal business hours, including on weekends and holidays, may also fall under the category of emergency dental services.

Most dental offices offer a 24-hour emergency phone number to address serious problems that can't wait.

Are you experiencing discomfort or pain but aren't sure if it qualifies as a dental emergency? Here are a few things to consider before calling an emergency dental clinic.

• Severe pain that is affecting your ability to function (eat, talk, etc.). Pain can be sharp, shooting, or a dull ache.
• A lost tooth requires quick action to save it and prevent the area from further damage or infection.
• Loose teeth in adults are a sign of something more serious. Even if your loose tooth isn't causing you pain, you need emergency dental care to save it. 
• An oral infection needs immediate attention. An abscess or other serious infection can be life-threatening. Symptoms include swelling on your gums or face.
• Bleeding from the mouth is both alarming and a sign of a dental emergency. 
• Tooth pain accompanied by a fever might be a sign of a serious infection. 

In short, any dental problem that needs immediate treatment to stop bleeding, prevent tooth loss, or alleviate pain may be considered a dental emergency. 



When in doubt, call your dentist for advice. Based on your symptoms, they can recommend an emergency visit or offer at-home remedies to help relieve your symptoms until your next appointment.

What is NOT Considered a Dental Emergency?

While it's better to be safe than sorry, you don't want to call an emergency dental clinic unnecessarily. Before you dial that number, take an objective look at your condition and symptoms.

Any dental issue that isn't causing extreme pain or bleeding can likely wait a few days. Also, if the issue isn't life-threatening or you're not at risk of losing your tooth, you can probably treat the problem at home until you get to the dentist's office.

A few examples of non-emergency dental problems include:

• Bleeding or inflamed gums
• Mild tooth pain or sensitivity
• A cracked or chipped tooth (unless it's causing extreme pain or sharp fragments are damaging the inside of your mouth). In most cases, a chipped tooth that doesn't hurt can wait for the next available appointment. 



If you're still unsure whether or not your dental problem requires immediate attention, a quick call to your dentist can put your mind at ease. They can also advise you on what steps to take next.

At-Home Treatment for Common Dental Issues

Dental pain and discomfort are no laughing matter. Whether you're visiting your dentist immediately or are waiting for the next available appointment, there are a few at-home remedies that can help ease symptoms and bring you relief.

Ice It

Facial swelling is a sure sign that something is amiss. The fastest way to bring down the swelling and reduce discomfort is by applying ice to the affected area.

Place an ice pack or cold compress to the outside of your face, cheek, or jaw (depending on where the swelling is). Try alternating 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off until the swelling is reduced.

Ice may also reduce pain by constricting the blood vessels in the affected area. 

Pain Medication

One of the fastest ways to relieve dental pain is using over-the-counter pain medications. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) often help. 

Only take the recommended amount to avoid unpleasant side effects. If the prescribed amount doesn't help, it may be time to call your dentist. 

In some cases, they can prescribe stronger, prescription pain killers. 

Rinsing with Salt Water or Hydrogen Peroxide

Depending on the type of dental problem you have, rinsing with salt water or hydrogen peroxide might offer some relief. 

Warm salt water is a common at-home remedy for treating toothaches and other oral issues. Salt is a natural antibacterial and may also reduce inflammation, preventing infection and further damage. 

Hydrogen peroxide rinse can help ease symptoms associated with gum disease, inflammation, and infections. Poor oral hygiene is the main cause of gum disease, which can cause bleeding and tooth loss.

Dilute equal parts food-grade hydrogen peroxide and water. Swish the mixture around in your mouth but be careful not to swallow it.

Sleep in an Elevated Position

When tooth pain hits at night, it can be difficult to sleep. In addition to pain relievers and ice, sleeping in an elevated position can offer much-needed relief.



Blood pooling in your head could intensify both your tooth pain and facial swelling. Try elevating your head using an extra pillow and sleeping in a propped-up position. This may offer enough pain relief for you to get a good night's sleep.

Don't Let a Dental Emergency Go Untreated

A dental emergency can cause more than just pain and discomfort. Some oral problems are life-threatening and require immediate treatment.

If you're experiencing symptoms associated with a dental emergency, call your dentist immediately for guidance. Some issues can wait until the next day while others require emergency medical attention.

The best way to prevent dental emergencies from happening is by visiting your dentist regularly and practicing good oral hygiene.

At Garland K. Davis, DDS Family Dentistry, your health, and comfort are our top priorities. We offer a variety of services including implants, restorative care, and cosmetic dentistry.

Using cutting-edge technology, we offer patients comprehensive and effective treatment in a welcoming atmosphere.



Click here to meet our staff and discover what makes Garland K. Davis, DDS Family Dentistry a practice you can trust.