When Should You See an Emergency Dentist?

A common issue we hear from patients is that they simply don’t know if their situation qualifies as an emergency. This can lead patients to avoid treatment that they definitely need. It’s common to minimise situations and convince yourself that other people need those appointments more.

To help you to decide if you need to see an emergency dentist or if you can wait for a routine appointment, we’ve put together this short guide. Ask yourself the following questions to decide if you need to see an emergency dentist.

Are you in pain?

Pain is one of the most common reasons that patients will see an emergency dentist. If your pain is keeping you awake at night or making it difficult to concentrate during the day, then you need to see a dentist. Remember that dental pain won’t go away without treatment and the issue could become much worse if you ignore it.

Are you bleeding?

If you have uncontrolled bleeding following dental surgery and you cannot control this by biting on a piece of gauze, then you need to see a dentist. Uncontrolled bleeding needs to be stopped to prevent further complications.

Have you lost a tooth?

A knocked out or displaced tooth can be saved if we are able to treat it quickly, usually within an hour. Keep the tooth moist and clean in a small container of milk and avoid touching it. If you can see a dentist within an hour, there is a chance of saving the tooth.

Have you chipped a tooth?

A chipped tooth might not seem serious, but there is a risk that the sensitive nerve may have been exposed, which could lead to intense pain. There is also a risk that the tooth could have a sharp edge that could cut your tongue or cheek. And if you’re getting ready for a special occasion, there’s a good chance you want to have your chipped tooth fixed quickly.

Have you broken or lost a restoration?

When you lose a filling, bridge, crown or veneer, the tooth below will suddenly be vulnerable to damage. These restorations will require us to remove part of the tooth, so when the protective restoration is lost, the tooth is at risk of damage. You might also experience intense nerve pain. To prevent issues arising down the line, see an emergency dentist to have your restoration replaced or reattached.

Do you have a sore that won’t heal?

After three weeks with a sore that won’t heal, you should start to think about an urgent dental checkup. Since oral cancer is more treatable the earlier we catch it, a persistent sore would be sufficient reason to see an emergency dentist. If nothing else, it will put your mind at ease.

Learn more about dental emergencies in our ultimate emergency dentist guide.