If you wake up at 4:00 AM with a throbbing toothache, this is something that you will not be able to ignore. And as such, you may soon find yourself on your phone or laptop typing in “dentist near me” to find the closest emergency dental team. But what you may not realise is that there are other symptoms that you may currently be experiencing, which may also indicate that you need to seek out same-day emergency treatment.
Swelling
If you have ever watched a cartoon that portrays dental pain, there is usually a child or adult with a swollen face. This is not a coincidence as the majority of dental emergencies will also present with swelling, especially if it is a dental abscess or an impacted tooth. If you notice swelling to your face, neck or anywhere in your mouth without discomfort, then this is still regarded as a dental emergency as it can (given time) become uncomfortable or create issues with breathing or eating. So if you notice that there is suddenly an unusual swelling in your mouth, seek out same-day care from a nearby dental team.
Discomfort
Discomfort is the universal indicator that you need a same-day appointment with your dentist. This discomfort may feel like bruising or burning, or it may simply be sensitivity to one of your teeth when pressure is applied or you drink hot or cold beverages. If the discomfort is driving you to distraction, then you need to contact your nearest dental team for an emergency appointment. Dental discomfort to this severity usually indicates an oral abscess, a large cavity, a lost restorative or even an impacted tooth.
Lost crown or filling
Lost crowns or fillings are very common, especially if they are amalgam-based restoratives. So if you have a suspicion that your crown or filling is loose, or if it falls out altogether, you will need to seek a same-day appointment. This will prevent any further decay from setting in and bacteria that are in your mouth from gaining access to the pulp, where it can cause an infection.
Cracks and chips
A crack or a chip in your teeth may not seem like an emergency, but it does require rapid treatment. As, like the last restorative, it can expose previously hidden parts of the tooth to the bacteria that you have in your mouth, which can cause further decay or an abscess.
Bleeding
If there is blood coming from your mouth following trauma or a dental procedure, this is nothing to usually be concerned about. But if after 20 minutes of applying pressure to the site with clean gauze, the bleed does not slow, then you will need to see your dental team urgently to have the wound cauterised to prevent blood loss.
