Dentist Emergencies: Top 5 Situations and What To Do Next

When unexpected dental issues arise, it’s not always clear whether they’re serious. But for many dentist emergencies, waiting too long can lead to pain, infection, or even tooth loss. At Tempe Family Dentistry, we’ve seen it all—and we know how important it is to get the right treatment fast. Whether it’s a cracked tooth or a sudden infection, knowing how to handle the situation can make all the difference.

So, how do you know when you’re dealing with dentist emergencies? Below, we’ve outlined the five most common ones and exactly what to do next.

1. Knocked-Out Tooth

A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dentist emergencies. If treated quickly, the tooth can often be saved and re-implanted. Here’s what to do:

• Pick up the tooth by the crown (top), not the root.
• Rinse it gently under water—don’t scrub it.
• If possible, place the tooth back in the socket. If not, store it in a container of milk or your saliva.
• Call Tempe Family Dentistry immediately and bring the tooth with you.

Acting quickly—ideally within 30 minutes—greatly improves the chances of saving the tooth.

2. Severe Toothache

While some toothaches are minor, persistent or throbbing pain often points to something more serious, like an exposed nerve, advanced decay, or infection. These types of dentist emergencies can escalate quickly.

• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
• Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling.
• Take over-the-counter pain medication but avoid putting aspirin directly on the gums.
• Contact our office right away for emergency care.

Ignoring the pain might lead to bigger issues like abscesses or permanent damage.

Signs That Mean You’re Dealing With Dentist Emergencies

Some people try to “tough it out,” not realizing they’re facing serious dentist emergencies. If you experience any of the following symptoms, don’t delay:

• Bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Loose adult teeth
• Swelling in the gums or jaw
• Pus or signs of infection
• Severe, unrelenting pain
• Trauma from sports or an accident

These symptoms are not normal and typically indicate serious dentist emergencies that need urgent treatment.

3. Broken or Cracked Tooth

A tooth can crack for many reasons—biting into hard food, sports injuries, or even grinding teeth at night. When it happens, you might feel pain, sensitivity, or a sharp edge in your mouth.
Here’s how to respond to these dentist emergencies:

• Rinse your mouth with warm water.
• Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• Save any pieces of the tooth, if available.
• Avoid eating or chewing on the affected side.
• Make an appointment with Tempe Family Dentistry right away.

Even if there’s no immediate pain, cracks can lead to nerve exposure or infection if left untreated.

4. Lost Filling or Crown

While a missing filling or crown might not seem urgent, it leaves the tooth vulnerable to damage, bacteria, and pain. These types of dentist emergencies are common and need timely attention.
In the meantime:

• Keep the crown or filling and bring it with you to your appointment.
• Avoid very hot, cold, or sugary foods that can irritate the exposed tooth.
• Use dental cement or even sugarless gum to temporarily cover the area (available at most drugstores).
• Call our office to be seen as soon as possible.

Prompt action helps prevent the tooth from breaking further or developing an infection.

How We Treat Dentist Emergencies at Tempe Family Dentistry

At Tempe Family Dentistry, we prioritize your comfort and peace of mind. When dentist emergencies strike, you don’t want to be stuck waiting for care. That’s why we offer:

• Same-day emergency appointments when available
• Experienced staff trained in urgent dental care
• Digital diagnostics for fast and accurate treatment
• Compassionate care in a calm, welcoming environment

Whether it’s a lost tooth or an abscess, our team is ready to act quickly so you can feel better faster.

5. Dental Abscess

This is one of the most dangerous dentist emergencies. An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by infection, and it can spread to the jaw, neck, and other areas of the body if not treated promptly.

Symptoms include:

• Throbbing pain
• Swollen face or jaw
• Fever
• Pus or a foul taste in the mouth
• A visible bump on the gums

Do not attempt to drain the abscess yourself. Instead:

• Rinse with salt water to help draw out the infection
• Take pain relievers if needed
• Call our office immediately for emergency care

We’ll assess the infection and provide drainage, antibiotics, or a root canal if necessary.

Experiencing one of these top 5 dentist emergencies? Don’t wait. Delaying care can lead to complications and even tooth loss. At Tempe Family Dentistry, we’re here when you need us most.

Call us now at (480) 839-0330 to schedule your emergency visit. Fast, compassionate treatment is just one call away.