You want to keep your mouth in perfect condition, but accidents happen, so it’s important to know when you need emergency dental care. Immediate attention from professionals can repair damage and help restore your quality of life. View the list below to learn more about common emergency dental care situations.

When to See an Emergency Dentist

1. Extreme Damage to Teeth

If teeth have been significantly chipped or broken, or partially out of the socket, see an emergency dentist right away because the tooth’s nerve may die quickly if too much time passes. Even completely removed teeth may be replaced if dental care is administered quick enough.

2. Bleeding of the Gums or Mouth 

Excessive or continual bleeding of the mouth or gums requires emergency dental care. A dentist can help stop bleeding and determine the injury. If you are losing large amounts of blood in your mouth, go to an emergency room instead so that they can deal with potentially serious blood loss.

3. Visible and Painful Swelling

These symptoms can signal infections that should be treated immediately so that it doesn’t spread to other areas of the body. If swelling progresses quickly without a cause, make an emergency dental appointment to determine the reason and receive medication if necessary. 

4. Severe Pain

Severe pain in the mouth can signal advanced decay of a tooth. Don’t ignore pain because it’s a signal from the body that something is wrong. Book an emergency appointment if you’ve tried over-the-counter medication or ice and the pain does not cease within 30 minutes to an hour.

5. Pus or Abscess

A visibly infected abscess or pus pocket that is draining into the mouth must be treated as soon as possible because infected teeth can impact the entire body. You may need antibiotics and emergency procedures to correct the infection.

6. When to Go to an Emergency Room

If you have other serious injuries or symptoms, head to the ER, even if symptoms are accompanied by injury to teeth. Although you want to avoid unnecessary hospital visits, it’s vital to treat life-threatening conditions.

The team of experts at Dentaworks Hawaii, in Honolulu, HI, offers emergency dental care, preventive and family dentistry, and restorative and cosmetic procedures. They’re committed to excellence of care and safety for their patients and meet OSHA, HIPAA, and CPR training requirements. Call (808) 528-1200 to make an appointment or visit the website to learn more about staff and services.