What Counts as a Dental Emergency
A dental emergency is anything that needs immediate treatment to relieve severe pain, control bleeding, or save a tooth — and some symptoms can signal an infection serious enough to affect your overall health. That includes:
- A knocked-out or severely broken tooth
- Persistent, severe pain that’s worsening or keeping you up at night
- Bleeding from the mouth that won’t stop
- Facial or gum swelling, especially with fever or difficulty swallowing
- A visible abscess or pus-filled bump on the gums
What Can Usually Wait
Not every dental issue needs urgent care, even if it’s uncomfortable. These can typically wait for a scheduled appointment:
- A chipped tooth with no pain or sharp edges
- Mild sensitivity that comes and goes
- A loose crown or lost filling with no pain
- Minor gum irritation or occasional bleeding when brushing
- Food stuck between teeth without real discomfort
When You’re Not Sure
Some symptoms genuinely fall into a gray area. If you’re unsure, call us — emergency calls are accepted outside regular hours, and we’ll help you figure out the right next step. If pain is intense, swelling is increasing, or there’s been trauma, don’t wait to see if it improves on its own.
Facing something that feels urgent? Call Densley Dental at (702) 212-6641 — we’re here to help.