Toothache or Emergency? When to Call the Dentist ASAP

Toothaches are annoying and painful, but occasionally they’re more than a bother. Toothaches are a sign that there is an actual dental problem, one that could require prompt care. Knowing when to wait and knowing when to seek the services of an emergency dentist in North York who can help keep your teeth protected and your health in order.

Not every toothache is an emergency, but if the pain is severe, comes on suddenly, or doesn’t go away, it might be time to act fast. In this blog, we’ll explain the signs of a dental emergency and what to do if you have one, even during weekends.

Is It Just a Toothache or a True Dental Emergency?

Toothaches can happen for lots of reasons, including cavities, gum disease, or even grinding your teeth while you sleep. Mild pain or sensitivity might go away on its own, especially if caused by something temporary like food stuck between your teeth.

But when does dental pain become an emergency? Here are signs you shouldn’t ignore:

Severe, throbbing pain that doesn’t go away
Swelling in your gums, face, or jaw
A cracked, broken, or knocked-out tooth
Bleeding that won’t stop.
Pus around a tooth or gums (sign of infection)
Fever along with tooth pain

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a dental clinic to get help quickly.

When to Call the Dentist Right Away

A regular checkup can wait, but emergencies can’t. You should contact your dentist right away if:

You have a tooth knocked out from an accident or sports injury
You bite down and suddenly feel a sharp pain or a tooth crack.
Your gums are bleeding badly and won’t stop.
You have pain with a fever or swelling, which could mean an infection.

Infections can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated, so don’t wait too long. Call your dentist and explain your symptoms clearly—they can help you decide what to do next.

What to Do If You Have a Dental Emergency on the Weekend

It’s never fun to deal with tooth pain on a Friday night or Sunday morning. You might wonder, what to do if you have a dental emergency on the weekend? Here are a few tips:

Call your dentist’s office – Many clinics have emergency numbers or weekend hours.
Use a cold compress – This can help with swelling and pain until you get treatment.
Take over-the-counter pain relief – Medicines like ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation.
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater – This can clean the area and ease discomfort.
Store a knocked-out tooth in milk – If your tooth is knocked out, place it in milk and get to the dentist ASAP. This may help save the tooth.

Even if the pain feels bearable, don’t delay. A minor issue can turn serious quickly.

Common Dental Emergencies and What They Mean

Here are some examples of common dental emergencies and what they might mean:

Abscessed tooth – This is a serious infection under your gums. It may look like a pimple on the gum and feel very painful.
Lost filling or crown – It may seem small, but the exposed tooth can become infected or damaged.
Cracked or chipped tooth – Even if it doesn’t hurt, cracks can grow and cause bigger problems later.
Something stuck between your teeth – If floss doesn’t help and it starts to hurt, you may need a dentist to safely remove it.

Don’t ignore symptoms just because they come and go. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to be safe and have it checked.

How to Prevent Dental Emergencies

While some emergencies happen by accident, many can be prevented with good habits:

Brush and floss every day
Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups.
Wear a mouthguard during sports.
Avoid chewing ice or hard candy.
Don’t use your teeth to open packages or bottles.

These small steps can help keep your teeth strong and avoid painful surprises.

Get the Help You Need Without Delay

When it comes to dental pain, don’t take chances. Whether it’s a dull ache or a sudden, sharp pain, your teeth might be trying to tell you something important. Acting quickly can stop the problem from getting worse and keep your smile healthy. If you’re unsure where to go, a trusted dental clinic in North York can assess your symptoms and provide the right care without delay.

Don’t Wait—Call Dentistry on Bayview for Fast, Caring Help

Toothaches and dental emergencies can be scary, but you don’t have to deal with them alone. At Dentistry on Bayview, our friendly and experienced team is here to help you feel better fast. If you’re in pain or have questions about a dental emergency, give us a call and schedule an appointment today. Your comfort and health are our top priorities—let us help you smile again!