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What Types of Dental Emergencies Do You Call Us For?

Posted on 9/15/2025 by Nancy Shiba DDS

Female patient in a dental chair, holding her jaw and describing tooth pain to a dentist during an emergency appointment.

A dental emergency can be a scary experience, but knowing what to do can help you stay calm and get the care you need. Here are some common dental emergencies that you should call your dentist for:

Severe Toothache

A severe toothache that doesn't go away with over-the-counter pain relievers could be a sign of an infected tooth, a cracked tooth, or another serious problem. Don't ignore a toothache – call your dentist right away.

Knocked-Out Tooth

If you've knocked out a tooth, call your dentist immediately. Time is of the essence when it comes to replanting a tooth. The sooner you get to the dentist, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

Broken or Chipped Tooth

A broken or chipped tooth can be painful and may expose the sensitive inner layer of the tooth. Depending on the severity of the break, your dentist may be able to repair the tooth with a filling or crown.

Lost Filling or Crown

A lost filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to decay and infection. Call your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment to have the filling or crown replaced.

Abscess

An abscess is a painful infection that can occur in the gums or around the tooth. Abscesses can cause swelling, redness, and pus. If you think you have an abscess, call your dentist right away.

Bleeding After Tooth Extraction

Some bleeding after a tooth extraction is normal. However, if the bleeding is excessive or doesn't stop after a few hours, call your dentist.

Other Dental Emergencies

There are other dental emergencies that you should call your dentist for, such as:

•	Severe jaw pain or swelling
•	Difficulty swallowing or breathing
•	Facial trauma
•	Loose or infected wisdom teeth

What to Do Until You Can See Your Dentist

If you have a dental emergency, there are a few things you can do until you can see your dentist:

•	Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
•	Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
•	Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
•	Avoid chewing on the affected area.
•	Call your dentist as soon as possible.

Prevention is Key

The best way to avoid a dental emergency is to practice good oral care. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

Restoration dentistry can also help prevent dental emergencies. If you have a cavity, crown, or other dental problem, getting it treated early can help prevent it from becoming a more serious problem later on.

Conclusion

If you have a dental emergency, don't hesitate to call your dentist. They can help you get the care you need and prevent further problems. With good oral care and regular dental checkups, you can help keep your smile healthy and avoid dental emergencies.

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Dental Blog • Nancy Shiba, DDS
Nancy Shiba, DDS, 125 N Jackson Ave, Suite 103, San Jose, CA 95116-1914; (669) 306-7669; nancyshibadds.com; 1/23/2026; Key Phrases: dentist san jose ca;