What Counts as a Dental Emergency? When to See a Dentist Immediately
Dental issues can creep up unexpectedly, but not every toothache or chip is a reason to panic. That said, some oral health problems do require immediate attention—and knowing when to act quickly can mean the difference between saving a tooth and losing one.
At Modern Dentistry of New England, we often hear patients ask: "Is this a dental emergency?" This blog will help you recognize true dental emergencies and know exactly when to reach out to your dentist without delay.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires immediate treatment to stop bleeding, alleviate severe pain, or save a tooth. It can also include infections that could be life-threatening if left untreated.
Some situations can wait a day or two, while others need same-day care. When in doubt, call your dentist to get expert advice.
Common Dental Emergencies That Need Immediate Attention
Here are some of the most common dental emergencies we treat at Modern Dentistry of New England:
1. Severe Toothache
A toothache that won’t go away or becomes unbearable is a clear signal to call us immediately. Pain could be a sign of decay, an abscess, or nerve damage.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth has been knocked out, time is critical. If treated within an hour, there's a good chance the tooth can be reimplanted. Hold the tooth by the crown, avoid touching the root, and keep it moist in milk or saliva until you reach our office.
3. Cracked or Broken Tooth
A minor chip can usually wait a day or two, but a large break that exposes the tooth’s nerves or causes bleeding is an emergency.
4. Abscessed Tooth or Swelling
A dental abscess is a severe infection that can spread to the jaw, neck, or even your brain. If you notice a painful, swollen area or pus discharge in your mouth, seek emergency care immediately.
5. Bleeding That Won’t Stop
Bleeding gums after brushing may not be urgent, but if you experience persistent bleeding due to trauma or unknown causes, it’s important to see a dentist right away.
6. Lost Filling or Crown
While not always an emergency, a lost crown or filling can expose the tooth to further damage. We recommend you call Modern Dentistry of New England for same-day service whenever possible.
Situations That Can Wait—but Not for Long
Some dental issues may not require an immediate trip to the emergency dentist, but they still need timely attention. These include:
For these issues, call us to schedule an appointment within a few days.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
- Stay calm – Stress can worsen symptoms like pain or bleeding.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water – Helps clean the area.
- Apply a cold compress – Reduces swelling.
- Call us immediately – Let Modern Dentistry of New England guide you through the next steps.
Trust Modern Dentistry of New England in Your Time of Need
Dental emergencies are never convenient, but having a trusted dental team can make all the difference. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we prioritize urgent dental care and offer same-day emergency appointments whenever possible. Our experienced team is here to relieve your pain and restore your smile—quickly and comfortably.
Don’t wait if you think you’re experiencing a dental emergency. Call us now or visit our emergency dental care page to schedule your urgent appointment. Your health and peace of mind are just one phone call away.
Dr. Sherif Gabr, DDS
Hello there! I am Sherif Gabr, and I will be your dentist at Modern Dentistry of New England. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we take pride in making everyone in our practice feel welcomed, valued and respected. When you become a patient at Modern Dentistry of New England, you are not joining a dental practice but also becoming part of our extended family.
