Emergency Dental Care: When to Seek Help and What to Expect

Dental emergencies tend to happen when you least expect them, leaving you in pain and unsure of what to do next. Whether it’s a sudden injury, a severe toothache or a lost filling, knowing how to respond can make all the difference — not only helping protect your oral health but also ensuring you’re prepared to handle unexpected situations with confidence.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about emergency dental care, from recognizing the types of emergencies to taking immediate action and finding the right care.

Types of dental emergencies

Here are some common dental emergencies and what to expect when addressing them:

1. Severe toothache: An intense toothache can signal underlying issues like decay, infection or gum disease. Persistent pain is a sign to take seriously, as it often points to a problem that needs prompt attention.
2. Knocked-out tooth: When a tooth is completely dislodged, it’s a true emergency. Quick action is key to potentially saving the tooth, as timing significantly affects the chances of reattachment. 
3. Cracked or broken tooth: A cracked or broken tooth can cause pain and expose inner layers of the tooth, making it vulnerable to further damage. The extent of the crack or break will determine how urgent the situation is. 
4. Lost filling or crown: A missing filling or crown exposes the tooth to sensitivity and damage. While it might not seem urgent, lost restorations can worsen if left untreated.
5. Soft tissue injuries: Injuries to the gums, cheeks, lips or tongue can cause pain and bleeding. While not all soft tissue injuries are severe, persistent bleeding or large wounds may need professional care.
6. Dental abscess: An abscess is a pocket of infection around a tooth or gum, often causing intense pain and swelling. Abscesses are serious as the infection can spread if not addressed. 

When to seek emergency dental care

Dental emergencies can often escalate quickly, so it’s important to know when to seek immediate help. If you experience any of the following, it’s best to contact a dental professional right away:

• Uncontrolled bleeding: Persistent or heavy bleeding in the mouth, whether from an injury or gum-related issue, is a sign that urgent care is needed. Uncontrolled bleeding can indicate damage to blood vessels or other tissues and should be addressed quickly to prevent complications.
• Severe pain: Intense or constant pain in a tooth, jaw or mouth can signal a serious problem. Severe pain often points to infections, fractures or nerve issues that can worsen if left untreated.
• Facial swelling: Swelling around the face or jaw area may result from trauma, infection or an abscess. Facial swelling can spread quickly, so seeking prompt treatment is important to manage discomfort and potential risks. 
• Signs of infection: Symptoms such as fever, a bad taste in the mouth or pus around a tooth or gums are warning signs of an infection, which may require immediate care. Dental infections can spread to other areas of the body if not treated, so early intervention is essential.
• Trauma to teeth or jaw: Physical injuries that affect the teeth or jaw — such as a knocked-out tooth, cracked teeth or jaw fractures — often need emergency attention. Trauma can impact the function and alignment of the jaw and teeth, and swift action may improve outcomes.

Steps to take in the event of a dental emergency

Knowing the right steps to take during a dental emergency can help prevent further damage and provide relief until you can see a dentist. Here are some immediate actions to consider.

First aid for common dental emergencies

For injuries causing bleeding, such as cuts to the lips, tongue or gums, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to reduce bacteria and cleanse the area. Applying a clean gauze pad with gentle pressure can help control bleeding until professional care is available. 

Preserving a knocked-out tooth

If a tooth has been completely knocked out, time is crucial. Handle the tooth by the crown (the top part), avoiding the root, and gently rinse it with water if it’s dirty. If possible, reinsert the tooth into its socket, or place it in a container of milk to keep the root moist. Seeking dental care immediately can increase the chance of saving the tooth.

Managing pain and swelling

For pain and swelling due to a dental injury or infection, applying a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or cheek near the affected area can help reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also provide temporary relief, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, as it can cause irritation.

Temporary measures for lost fillings or crowns

If a filling or crown fills out, keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side to prevent further damage. Dental wax or temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can help cover the exposed area until you can see a dentist. Bring the crown with you to the appointment if you still have it, as it may be possible to reattach. 

What to expect at an emergency dental visit

When you visit the dentist for an emergency, the primary goal is to address pain and prevent further damage. The dentist will begin by assessing your symptoms and examining the affected area. This may include X-rays to pinpoint the issue, especially if there’s pain, swelling or a visible injury. A quick and thorough diagnosis is essential to determine the appropriate treatment.

Once the source of the problem is identified, your dentist will discuss the best course of action. For minor issues, treatment may be completed during the visit, while more complex cases might require follow-up appointments or specialist referrals. Common emergency treatments include:

• Reattaching a knocked-out tooth
• Placing temporary fillings
• Draining an abscess
• Addressing soft tissue injuries.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms, the dentist may also administer a local anesthetic to numb the area, making you more comfortable while the treatment is performed. 

Before you leave, the dentist will explain any necessary aftercare, such as avoiding certain foods, taking prescribed medications, or applying ice to reduce swelling. 

The cost of emergency dental care can vary widely based on the severity of the issue and the treatments needed. For those with dental insurance, emergency visits may be partially or fully covered depending on the plan’s benefits. However, without insurance, emergency dental visits and associated treatments can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. 

Where to get emergency dental care

In an emergency, you have a few options for accessing treatment quickly:

• Your local dental office may offer emergency services or have after-hours availability. 
• Some areas have 24-hour emergency dental clinics dedicated to urgent care.
• For severe dental emergencies, a hospital emergency room is the best option.

Prevention of dental emergencies

Not all dental emergencies can be avoided. But taking proactive steps can significantly reduce your risk. Protect your oral health and prevent emergencies by:

• Maintaining good oral hygiene
• Visiting your dentist regularly
• Wearing protective gear like mouth guards when playing sports
• Avoiding harmful habits like biting nails and chewing on ice
• Being mindful of your diet
• Addressing dental issues promptly
• Staying prepared with an emergency kit at home

Dental insurance with no waiting period for emergencies

Facing a dental emergency can be stressful, especially when you’re concerned about the cost of care. Having dental insurance that includes no waiting period for emergency treatments can provide immediate coverage and peace of mind when you need it most.

Unlike some plans that delay benefits for major services, Spirit Dental offers plans with no waiting period for emergencies, so you’re covered right away. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, severe pain or a cracked filling, Spirit can help ensure you get the care you need without unnecessary delays or financial strain.

Don’t wait until an emergency happens — be prepared with a plan that works for you. Explore Spirit Dental’s coverage options to find the policy that fits your needs and budget.