Dental Emergencies: When to Visit Immediately

Dental emergencies can happen at any time and often cause severe pain, bleeding, or damage that should not be ignored. Knowing when to seek immediate dental care can make the difference between saving a tooth and facing long-term complications. At Pacific Highway Dental in Surrey, we provide urgent dental services to help patients when they need care the most.

Severe Tooth Pain

Intense or persistent tooth pain often indicates a serious problem such as infection, abscess, or advanced decay. If over-the-counter medication does not help and the pain interferes with daily activities, it is time to visit a dentist immediately.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If a tooth is knocked out due to an accident or injury, quick action can often save it. Place the tooth in milk or keep it moist in your mouth and seek dental care right away. The sooner the tooth is reimplanted, the better the chances of saving it.

Cracked or Broken Tooth

A cracked or broken tooth can expose the inner layers of the tooth, causing pain and increasing the risk of infection. Immediate care helps restore function and prevent further complications.

Uncontrolled Bleeding

Bleeding that does not stop after an injury or tooth extraction should be taken seriously. Excessive or prolonged bleeding requires emergency dental treatment.

Swelling in the Face or Jaw

Facial swelling, especially when combined with pain, fever, or difficulty breathing, can be a sign of a serious infection. This requires urgent dental attention to prevent the infection from spreading.

Lost Filling or Crown

While not always as painful as other emergencies, a lost filling or crown can expose the tooth to damage and sensitivity. If this happens, contacting your dentist immediately ensures the tooth is protected and repaired quickly.