Dental problems sometimes happen without warning. Whether it’s an unexpected toothache or an injury to your mouth, knowing when to seek help can keep your smile and prevent further health issues. Have you ever asked yourself, “When should I use dental emergency services?” If so, this guide was designed for you.
If you or someone you know has sustained dental pain or injury, Emergency Dentistry in St. Albert, AB, can provide the treatment you require when you need it most. Here are 10 unmistakable indicators that you should go to an emergency dentist as soon as possible.
Why Emergency Dental Care Matters
Dental emergencies are not all about pain. There are lots of things, such as infection or chipped teeth, that will worsen if you delay. A visit to an emergency dentist quickly will halt the pain, save your teeth, and avoid severe health complications.
Identifying these signs will help you make the right decision before it gets worse. Yes, it is always better to act early and be safe than to wait for some time and need more drastic treatment later.
Let’s look at the 10 signs that mean you may need emergency dental care.
1. Severe Toothache That Won’t Go Away
A small ache might be manageable, but if the pain is strong and does not stop, it could be a sign of something serious, like a cavity, a cracked tooth, or an infected nerve. If over-the-counter painkillers don’t help, you need to see a dentist fast.
2. Facial or Gum Swelling
If your face or gums become swollen, it might be a sign of a dental infection. Swelling can spread quickly and lead to more problems if left untreated. This is one of the most common reasons people seek a dentist in St. Albert.
3. A Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency. If you act quickly, the tooth might be saved. Hold it by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently, and try to put it back in place. If that’s not possible, keep it in milk and visit the dentist immediately.
4. Broken or Cracked Tooth
If your tooth cracks or breaks, bacteria can enter and cause an infection. Depending on how severe the damage is, the dentist may use a filling or crown or perform a root canal. This also falls under restorative dentistry , which focuses on repairing and saving teeth.
5. Loose or Wiggly Permanent Tooth
If your adult tooth feels loose without an obvious cause, it could be due to injury or gum disease. Either way, it’s not normal and needs professional care. The earlier you act, the more likely your dentist can save it.
6. Bleeding Gums That Won’t Stop
Gums can bleed from brushing or flossing, but if the bleeding is heavy or won’t stop, it could mean something more serious. This may point to advanced gum disease or trauma that requires fast dental care.
7. Lost Crown or Filling
A crown or filling protects your tooth. When it falls out, the tooth becomes sensitive and more likely to get damaged or infected. Until you can visit a dentist, cover the area with dental wax or sugarless gum.
8. Dental Abscess or Pus Bump
A pimple-like bump on your gums may mean you have an abscess, which is a pocket of infection. It can cause pain, fever, and swelling and even spread to other parts of your body if untreated. This should always be treated as a dental emergency.
9. Injury Inside the Mouth or to the Tongue
If you’ve been hit in the mouth or bitten your tongue badly and there’s heavy bleeding, it’s important to see a dentist. Deep cuts inside the mouth may need stitches or special care to avoid infection.
10. Jaw Pain or Locking
If you suddenly can’t open or close your jaw properly or feel clicking or sharp pain, it might be a jaw joint issue. This can also be linked to tooth problems or muscle strain. A dentist can check what’s wrong and recommend treatment.
When to Use Dental Emergency Services
If you are unsure about what counts as a dental emergency, use this simple checklist:
- Pain is constant or gets worse
- Bleeding won’t stop
- A tooth has fallen out or feels loose.
- You have signs of infection, like fever or pus.
- The swelling is getting bigger.
- You injured your teeth, mouth, or jaw.
In any of these cases, it is better to be safe and call an emergency dentistry near you for advice or an urgent appointment.
What Can Happen If You Wait Too Long
Serious repercussions may result from ignoring a dental emergency. A small infection can spread, a broken tooth can decay further, and jaw problems can become harder to treat. In some cases, delaying care can even affect your overall health.
Ready for Emergency Dental Help?
Tooth pain and injuries can be stressful, but you are not alone. If you are experiencing any of the signs listed above, do not wait. Reach out to our friendly dental team at Dentus Family Dental to help with gentle, fast, and professional care.