The Top 5 Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care Immediately

Dental emergencies never ask permission—they strike unexpectedly, disrupting comfort at the worst possible moments. Whether it’s intense pain, sudden swelling, or unexpected injury, recognizing when to seek immediate professional help is critical. Here are five clear warning signs to quickly identify if you should contact your emergency dentist right now to protect your teeth and overall health.

Unrelenting or Severe Tooth Pain

Not all toothaches are emergencies. Some come and go, signalling a cavity or minor issue. But when the pain becomes sharp, throbbing, or just won’t go away, it’s time to take it seriously.

What to watch for:

• Pain that wakes you up at night
• Pain that spreads to your ear, neck, or jaw
• Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers
• Pain that worsens when lying down

These signs may point to an infected tooth or abscess. This is something you should not ignore. Infections can spread quickly to other areas, including your bloodstream. If you feel unwell, develop a fever, or notice a foul taste in your mouth, don’t wait—see a dentist in L4Z 2V4 right away.

Swollen Gums or Face

Swelling in your mouth or face may appear minor at first, but it can signal significant trouble. Swelling often signals an infection, injury, or blocked salivary gland. It’s not just uncomfortable—it can affect breathing or swallowing if it spreads.

Look for:

• Puffy or tender gums
• Swelling on one side of the face
• Redness around a specific tooth
• Pus or fluid coming from the gums.

If you notice any of these, especially if the swelling grows quickly, contact an emergency dentist in Mississauga immediately. The sooner it’s treated, the less chance it has to worsen.

Knocked-Out or Dislodged Tooth

Accidents happen. A fall, sports injury, or even biting into something hard can dislodge a tooth. The first few minutes really count and could be the key to saving your tooth.

Steps to take if a tooth is knocked out:

• Pick it up by the crown (the chewing part), not the root
• Give it a gentle rinse with water if needed, but be careful not to scrub it too hard.
• Place it back in the socket.
• If not, store it in milk or your saliva

Time is critical. Reaching a dentist in Mississauga, ON, within 30 minutes gives the best chance of saving the tooth. Even if the tooth is loose but hasn’t fallen out, don’t try to move it—head straight to the dental office.

Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Tooth

You might think a chipped tooth isn’t a big deal, especially if there’s no pain. But even small cracks can run deep below the surface. Untreated cracks can spread, leading to serious damage or infection.

Key warning signs:

• Sharp pain when biting down
• Sensitivity when eating or drinking
• Jagged or uneven edges
• Visible cracks or missing pieces

Cracks can expose the nerves inside your tooth. The sooner it’s fixed, the better the outcome. Don’t rely on home remedies or delay care. Getting prompt attention can protect the rest of your tooth and reduce the risk of a root canal.

Persistent Bleeding in the Mouth

Bleeding after brushing or flossing can be common, especially if you haven’t flossed in a while. However, if the bleeding doesn’t stop, appears without a clear reason, or occurs after an injury, you need help.

Possible causes include:

• Trauma to the tongue or cheeks
• The latest gum disease
• Cuts from sharp foods or dental appliances
• Dislodged crowns or fillings

If this happens, rinse your mouth with water, gently press gauze on the area, and refrain from eating or drinking for now. If the bleeding continues for more than 15 minutes or is heavy, it’s time to call an emergency dentist. Blood loss and infection risks rise the longer you wait.

When You’re Not Sure—Call Anyway

Dental emergencies don’t always follow a predictable pattern. Some problems may seem minor, but they are often signs of something more significant. If you’re unsure, don’t guess. Calling a professional can save you from pain, cost, and complications later.

Call a dentist if you:

• Notice sudden changes in bite or alignment
• Feel tingling or numbness in the mouth.
• See dark spots, soft areas, or sudden sensitivity.
• Experience jaw locking or clicking that worsens.

Trust your gut. If something feels wrong, your body is trying to tell you something. Acting early makes a difference.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let a dental emergency catch you off guard. Prompt treatment is essential for protecting both your oral health and overall well-being. If you notice any of these signs, contact Dr. Jeff Levman right away for prompt, professional care. Your comfort matters—trust a skilled team that’s ready when you need it most. Call now and take the first step toward relief.