Dental emergencies do not all look alike. A tooth can hurt without visible damage, and a damaged tooth may initially cause little pain. How quickly a problem is changing, whether an injury occurred, and whether swelling or illness is present all matter. Avoid judging urgency only by how the tooth looks in a mirror.
Swelling around a tooth or in the face
New gum or facial swelling needs prompt professional attention, particularly with fever, drainage or a bad taste. Do not squeeze the swelling or try to drain it. Rapidly spreading swelling, swelling near the eye, or swelling with difficulty swallowing or breathing requires emergency medical care.
A permanent tooth knocked out
A knocked-out permanent tooth needs immediate dental attention. Handle it by the crown, the part normally visible above the gum, and avoid touching or scrubbing the root. If it cannot be safely placed back in its socket, keep it in milk and seek help immediately. Never reinsert a baby tooth.
Bleeding after an injury
Apply steady pressure with clean gauze to an accessible bleeding area. Avoid repeatedly lifting the gauze to check. Heavy bleeding that does not stop, a suspected broken jaw, or a significant head or facial injury warrants emergency medical assessment. Call 911 for severe bleeding or other life-threatening symptoms.
A missing filling or loose crown
A lost restoration can leave a tooth sensitive or difficult to chew on. Keep a detached crown in a clean container, avoid chewing on that side, and ask about a dental assessment. Do not use household glue or force a piece back into position.
