What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any issue involving severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, a knocked-out or loose tooth, a broken tooth exposing the nerve, or swelling that could signal an infection. If you’re unsure, call us—we’d rather tell you it can wait than have you wait in pain.

Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care

Some dental problems can wait for a regular appointment. Others can’t, and delaying treatment may make the problem more painful, expensive, or difficult to treat.

We generally consider the following situations dental emergencies:

• Severe or throbbing tooth pain that doesn’t ease up

• A knocked-out or badly loosened tooth

• A broken or chipped tooth, especially if it’s painful or the nerve is visible

• A lost filling or crown that is causing pain or exposing the tooth

• Swelling in the face or gums, or another sign of infection

• Uncontrolled bleeding in the mouth

• An injury to the mouth caused by a fall, sport, or accident

Lost Fillings, Crowns, and Broken Teeth

A damaged restoration or tooth may require prompt treatment, particularly if the affected area is painful or exposed. Learn more about our dental fillings and crowns and bridges to understand how we can restore and protect damaged teeth.

When to Contact an Emergency Dentist

If your issue doesn’t match any of the situations above—such as mild sensitivity that comes and goes—it may not be an emergency. However, it is still worth having it examined before it develops into a more serious problem.

When treatment is urgent, we offer same-day and 24-hour emergency appointments. Call us at (615) 383-7801, and we’ll do our best to work you in.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifies as a dental emergency?

Severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, a knocked-out or loose tooth, a broken tooth exposing the nerve, or swelling that could signal an infection. If you're not sure, call us. We'd rather tell you it can wait than have you wait in pain.

Is a lost filling or crown an emergency?

It is if it's painful or leaves the tooth exposed. If it doesn't hurt, it can usually wait a day or two, but have it replaced soon so the tooth doesn't crack or decay further.

Can I get a same-day emergency appointment in Green Hills?

Yes. We offer same-day and 24-hour emergency appointments at our Green Hills office on Bedford Avenue. Call (615) 383-7801 and we'll work you in.

Written by Dr. David Roach, D.D.S., who has cared for Green Hills families for 26 years.