When a dental issue strikes unexpectedly, it can be hard to know whether it's urgent or something that can wait. Understanding what qualifies as a dental emergency can help you take the right steps to protect your health. If you're dealing with pain, bleeding, or swelling, don’t delay—consulting a dentist in NW Calgary promptly could prevent serious complications.
Below, we’ll explore what situations are considered dental emergencies, common signs to watch for, and what you should do if you’re facing a sudden dental issue.
1. Severe Tooth Pain
Persistent or severe tooth pain is one of the most common reasons people seek out emergency dental care. Pain can indicate an infection, abscess, or nerve damage. If the discomfort keeps you from eating, sleeping, or concentrating, it’s time to see an emergency dentist in NW Calgary. Avoiding treatment may worsen the condition and lead to tooth loss or a spread of infection.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out (avulsed) tooth is a true dental emergency. Time is critical—if you act within 30 to 60 minutes, there’s a chance the dentist can reinsert and save the tooth. Gently rinse the tooth with water, avoid touching the root, and try to place it back into the socket or store it in milk until you can reach a dentist near you.
3. Broken or Cracked Tooth
Cracks and fractures in a tooth may seem minor but can quickly escalate. These injuries often expose the inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, leading to infection or decay. If you’ve suffered trauma or bit into something hard and now feel sharp edges or pain, don’t wait. Visit an emergency dentist NW Calgary to assess and restore the tooth before the damage worsens.
4. Swelling in the Face or Gums
Facial or gum swelling, especially if it comes on suddenly, could be a sign of a serious infection or abscess. This condition often causes pain, fever, and difficulty opening the mouth. Left untreated, the infection can spread to other parts of the body, including vital organs. Contact a qualified dentist near you right away if you notice unexplained swelling in your mouth or face.
5. Uncontrolled Bleeding
Bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure for 10–15 minutes is not normal. Whether it's due to trauma, gum disease, or a recent dental procedure, uncontrolled oral bleeding should be treated as an emergency. Immediate care from an emergency dentist in NW Calgary will help identify the cause and stop the bleeding effectively.
6. Abscessed Tooth
A dental abscess is a painful, pus-filled infection around the root of a tooth or in the gums. Symptoms include a swollen face, throbbing pain, bad breath, and sometimes a fever. If left untreated, the infection can travel to other parts of the body, becoming life-threatening. Seeking treatment from a dentist in NW Calgary as soon as possible is critical to avoid complications.
7. Loose or Lost Dental Restoration
Losing a crown, filling, or bridge may not seem like an emergency, but it can leave your tooth vulnerable to damage or infection. If this happens, try to preserve the restoration and visit an emergency dentist NW Calgary to have it repaired or replaced before the tooth structure deteriorates further.
8. Broken Jaw or Injury to the Face
If you suspect your jaw is broken, or you’ve suffered a hard blow to the face causing severe pain, swelling, or limited movement, you should go to the emergency room immediately. After stabilizing the injury, follow up with a dentist near you for a detailed evaluation of your teeth and jaw alignment.
9. Sudden Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity isn’t always an emergency, but sudden and intense sensitivity—especially to hot or cold—can indicate problems like a cracked tooth or gum recession. If the pain is sharp or doesn’t go away after avoiding triggers, it’s worth scheduling a visit with an emergency dentist in NW Calgary to diagnose the underlying issue.
10. Something Stuck Between Teeth
While floss can often dislodge trapped food, a hard object stuck between teeth—especially if it’s causing pain or bleeding—requires professional help. Forcing it out yourself could damage your gums or teeth. A dentist near you has the right tools and expertise to remove it safely and painlessly.
11. Soft Tissue Injuries
Cuts, lacerations, or bites to the lips, tongue, or cheeks can result in significant bleeding and discomfort. If you’re unable to control the bleeding or the injury looks deep, visiting an emergency dentist NW Calgary is recommended. You may need stitches or additional treatment to prevent infection and promote healing.
When to Go to the ER vs. a Dentist
In some cases, a dental issue might be so severe that it requires emergency room care, such as:
Jaw fractures
Heavy bleeding that won't stop
High fever and swelling from an abscess
Otherwise, for most urgent oral health concerns, a visit to a skilled dentist in NW Calgary is the best choice. They have the tools, training, and experience to treat emergencies efficiently and relieve your discomfort.
What You Can Do Before Reaching a Dentist
While on your way to get help, here are a few things you can do:
Use a cold compress for swelling
Rinse with warm saltwater to soothe an irritated mouth
Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed (avoid aspirin for bleeding issues)
Preserve any lost teeth or restorations
Avoid eating or drinking on the affected side
These steps won’t replace professional care but can help reduce symptoms temporarily until you reach an emergency dentist NW Calgary.
Conclusion: Your Emergency Dentist in NW Calgary
Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and quick action can make all the difference. Whether it's intense pain, swelling, or trauma, don't ignore the warning signs. At Spy Hill Dental Clinic, we provide fast, compassionate, and expert care for dental emergencies. If you're searching for a dentist near you, our team is here to help you get the relief you need—when you need it most. Call us right away to schedule your emergency visit.