Tooth pain is never merely pain. Sometimes it’s your body screaming. Either quietly, such as a minor gum infection. Or screaming—such as a cracked tooth or ongoing swelling. Knowing when to call an emergency dentist in Newton can mean the difference between losing a tooth and saving one.
This article lists the seven most prevalent symptoms that you shouldn’t hesitate to address. Whether it’s a weekend, holiday, or even the middle of the night, dental emergencies must be seen immediately, and it’s important to know what qualifies as an emergency.
1. Severe Tooth Pain That Won’t Subside
A quick sting when you bite into something cold is not a reason to worry. If you’re feeling nipping, stabbing, or lingering pain, it could be infection, nerve exposure, or advanced tooth decay. This type of pain won’t get better without a dentist’s help. Over-the-counter pain relievers might fail to support your compromised oral health.
Why it matters:
Ignoring this type of pain can result in an abscess or jawbone loss/damage, which needs immediate attention.
2. Swollen Jaw or Gums
A swelling in your gums, jaw, or face can indicate a deep infection. Dental abscesses usually create facial swelling and can also bring along fever, tenderness, or a foul taste in your mouth. This is your body’s way of indicating that it’s battling serious trouble.
Act fast:
Delayed treatment for swelling can lead to complications in overall health.
3. A Knocked-Out Tooth
If your tooth has been knocked out due to an accident or sports injury, time is critical. You have 30–60 minutes, as stated by the American Association of Endodontists, for the highest success of saving your tooth. Handle it with care, keep it moist, and rush to an emergency dentist in Newton right away.
4. Cracked or Broken Tooth
Not all tooth cracks are visible or, at least, at first. But when it opens the inner portions/pulp of your tooth, it can cause infection or nerve damage. Chewing, talking, or even breathing cold air can become painful.
A cracked tooth is not something to wait and see. Having it repaired right away protects it from further damage.
5. Uncontrolled Mouth Bleeding
Mild bleeding while brushing is not always a cause for concern, though. When you notice ongoing bleeding following trauma, a dental procedure, or due to gum infection beneath the surface, you’re facing a dental emergency.
Bleeding that lasts longer than 10–15 minutes despite gentle pressure must be assessed immediately.
6. Loose Adult Tooth
Permanent teeth are never loose. If one starts to shift, wiggle, or become loose, it could be a sign of trauma, infection, or severe gum disease. The sooner it’s looked at, the greater the chance of saving it.
If the tooth is still there, there might be a chance to stabilize and save it with splinting or other procedures.
7. Painful Sores or Abscesses
A gum pimple, pus, or bad taste in the mouth can be a sign of a severe dental abscess. It is a highly contagious infection that can lead to other health complications (like heart disease) when it’s in its untreated phase. Treating it early not only relieves pain but also protects the neighboring teeth and tissues from further damage.
When to Call a Newton Emergency Dentist
You don’t need to be in extreme pain for something to qualify as an emergency. Even a mild symptom that rapidly worsens should not be overlooked. If you’re unsure whether it’s urgent, it’s always better to ask.
With cooperative assistance from the dental team, Newton Dental Studio is ready to assist its patients in managing unexpected dental needs with timely, compassionate care. From a painful swelling to a tooth that has been knocked out, our team delivers one-on-one, quality service to each patient.
