Dental pain never arrives at a convenient time. A throbbing tooth interrupts your weekend plans, a cracked crown happens during dinner, or sudden swelling appears on a holiday evening. In these moments, you face an immediate question: do you need emergency care right now, or can this wait until tomorrow? Understanding which situations require urgent attention and which can wait helps you make confident decisions about your oral health.
At Floss & Co., we provide emergency dental care when you need it most. Our team understands the stress and uncertainty that comes with unexpected dental problems. We’re here to guide you through these situations, offering same-day appointments and expert care that prioritizes your comfort and well-being.
True Emergencies That Need Immediate Care
Some dental situations demand immediate professional attention to prevent permanent damage or serious health complications. A knocked-out tooth tops this list. Time matters critically here because we may be able to save your tooth if you act quickly. The American Dental Association recommends always keeping a knocked-out tooth moist by placing it back in the socket without touching the root, or keeping it between your cheek and gums until you reach our office. Call us immediately if this happens.
Severe, uncontrolled bleeding and facial swelling with breathing difficulties also require urgent care. Bleeding that continues after 10 minutes of steady pressure may indicate a serious underlying issue requiring immediate intervention. Facial swelling accompanied by difficulty swallowing or breathing signals a potentially dangerous infection. These situations may require emergency room care before visiting our dental office, as they can become life-threatening if left untreated.
Dental Abscesses and Infections Need Quick Treatment
A dental abscess represents a serious infection requiring prompt professional care. You might notice severe, throbbing pain, visible swelling in your face or gums, fever, swollen lymph nodes in your neck, or a persistent foul taste in your mouth. These infections occur when bacteria enter the tooth pulp through decay, gum disease, or a cracked tooth, causing pus buildup. Without treatment, the infection can spread to other parts of your body through your bloodstream.
We treat abscesses by draining the infection and often prescribing antibiotics to prevent further complications. If the infection stems from a damaged tooth, you may need a root canal to save it. Don’t wait if you suspect an abscess, as these infections worsen rapidly and can cause serious health problems beyond your mouth.
Issues That Can Wait 24 Hours
Several dental problems need professional attention soon but don’t require middle-of-the-night emergency care. A cracked or broken tooth fits this category if you’re not experiencing severe pain. Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to reduce any swelling, and avoid chewing on that side until we can see you. Schedule an appointment for the next available business day.
Lost dental crowns or fillings also need relatively quick attention to protect the exposed tooth from bacteria and additional damage. If possible, temporarily replace a lost crown using dental cement from a pharmacy, but contact us within 24 hours. We offer same-day crown solutions using digital scanning technology, meaning we can often restore your tooth in a single visit without goopy impressions.
When You Can Schedule a Regular Appointment
Not every dental concern constitutes an emergency. Many situations can wait for a regular appointment during normal business hours. Minor chips without pain or sharp edges, dull toaches that come and go, manageable sensitivity to hot or cold, and slight irritation from braces typically don’t need urgent intervention. These issues benefit from professional care but don’t pose immediate risks to your health.
The following situations usually can wait for a routine visit:
- Small cavities discovered during check-ups with no pain
- Minor tooth sensitivity responding to specialized toothpaste
- Cosmetic concerns like stained or discolored teeth
- Food stuck between teeth that you can’t remove with gentle flossing
- Loose brackets on braces without protruding wires
If you frequently experience any of these problems, schedule a regular appointment to address the underlying cause and prevent future issues.
Trust Floss & Co. for Emergency Dental Care
Knowing when to seek immediate care versus when you can safely wait protects your oral health while reducing unnecessary stress. We believe in empowering our patients with clear information so you can make confident decisions about your dental needs. Our practice welcomes patients of all ages and backgrounds, creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels comfortable seeking care.
Our experienced team uses advanced technology to diagnose and treat dental emergencies quickly and effectively while prioritizing your comfort through every procedure. Whether you’re facing a true emergency or simply need guidance about a dental concern, we’re ready to help. If you’re experiencing a dental problem and aren’t sure whether it needs immediate attention, reach out to us so we can assess your situation and provide the appropriate care exactly when you need it.