Dental problems don’t always wait for business hours. Some issues need urgent attention to stop pain, save a tooth, or prevent further damage. Knowing when to contact an emergency dentist can make all the difference in your recovery.
If you've ever searched for an emergency dentist near me, this guide will help you identify what counts as a true dental emergency and how to act quickly.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation that involves sudden pain, injury, or infection in your mouth and requires immediate care. Delaying treatment in these cases can lead to permanent damage or more complex problems.
Common dental emergencies include:
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Severe toothache that doesn’t go away
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Broken, chipped, or knocked-out teeth
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Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums
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Bleeding that doesn’t stop
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Infections or abscesses
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Lost fillings, crowns, or dental appliances causing pain
If you’re experiencing one of these symptoms, contact an emergency dentist near me as soon as possible.
How to Tell If It’s a Real Dental Emergency
Not every dental issue is urgent. Some can wait a few days, while others need immediate care. Use these signs to decide:
It’s a Real Emergency If:
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You are in constant, severe pain
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There is visible swelling in your jaw or face
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You’ve lost a permanent tooth
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Your mouth is bleeding and won’t stop
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You have signs of infection (fever, pus, bad taste)
These conditions require fast treatment from an emergency dentist to prevent complications like bone loss, spread of infection, or permanent tooth damage.
It’s Not an Emergency If:
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You have a mild toothache
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A crown or filling falls out but you’re not in pain
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Your teeth feel sensitive but there is no swelling or injury
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You have a chipped tooth that doesn’t hurt
In non-urgent cases, you should still book a dental appointment—but it doesn’t require same-day care.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Acting quickly improves the chance of saving your tooth and avoiding further damage.
Follow these steps:
1. Stay Calm
Panic can make the situation feel worse. Take a deep breath and assess the symptoms.
2. Call an Emergency Dentist Immediately
If you’re searching online for an emergency dentist near me, choose a clinic with same-day or after-hours availability. Tell them your symptoms clearly so they can prepare for your visit.
3. Handle the Injury Carefully
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For a knocked-out tooth, hold it by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently, and place it in milk or your mouth to keep it moist.
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For bleeding, press a clean cloth to the area.
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For swelling, apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek.
4. Take Pain Relief if Needed
Use over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol, but avoid aspirin if there’s bleeding. Never place pills directly on the gums—it can cause irritation.
5. Avoid Eating or Drinking on the Affected Side
Keep the area clean and avoid hot or hard foods until you see the dentist.
Why Immediate Dental Care Matters
Waiting too long in a dental emergency can lead to serious outcomes, such as:
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Tooth loss
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Infection spreading to other parts of the body
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Increased cost and complexity of treatment
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Long-term damage to gums, nerves, or bone
Fast action gives your emergency dentist the best chance to treat the problem before it becomes worse.
How East Adelaide Dental Studio Can Help
At East Adelaide Dental Studio, we understand that dental emergencies happen at the worst times. We provide fast, compassionate care for patients in Glenside, Burnside, Fullarton, and surrounding areas. Led by Dr Arthur Shizas, our clinic is equipped to handle a wide range of urgent dental needs.
If you’re in pain and searching for an emergency dentist near me, our team will respond quickly to relieve your symptoms and protect your smile.
Be Prepared Before It Happens
Even if you don’t have a current problem, it helps to know where to go in an emergency. Save the number of a trusted emergency dentist in your phone and know their location and hours. Early action often leads to better outcomes and less stress.
Read more: How to Respond Quickly to a Dental Emergency
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