Urgent dental problems range from severe tooth pain to broken or knocked-out teeth. A dentist needs to evaluate the cause before treatment can be recommended.
Reasons to seek prompt dental evaluation
- Severe, persistent or worsening tooth pain.
- A cracked, fractured, displaced or knocked-out tooth.
- Dental swelling, tenderness, a bad taste or other signs that may indicate infection.
- Bleeding or oral injury that is not settling as expected.
- A lost crown or filling with pain, sensitivity or sharp edges.
What happens after you call?
Be ready to explain the main symptom, when it started, whether an injury occurred, and whether you have swelling, fever or bleeding. The dental professional receiving the call can determine what should happen next and whether an appointment is available.
Related emergency topics
General emergency guidance on this site is informed by patient education from the American Dental Association's MouthHealthy program and the American Association of Endodontists. It is educational and does not replace an examination by a dentist.