Learn when to seek urgent dental care and what to do in the moment.
Dental pain and injuries can happen suddenly — during a hockey game, over the weekend, or late at night when most clinics are closed. But how do you know if it’s something that needs immediate attention?
Knowing what qualifies as a dental emergency can help you act quickly and potentially save your tooth, relieve pain, and avoid long-term complications.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires immediate treatment to stop bleeding, alleviate severe pain, save a tooth, or address an infection that could be life-threatening if left untreated. If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to call your dentist for advice.
Common Dental Emergencies
Here are some situations that typically qualify as dental emergencies in Canada:
- Severe Toothache or Pain
If you’re experiencing sharp, throbbing, or persistent tooth pain that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain relief, it may be a sign of infection or nerve damage. This needs prompt treatment. - Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth has been completely knocked out, time is critical. Try to gently place it back in the socket or keep it in milk or saliva, and get to a dentist within 30–60 minutes. - Cracked or Broken Tooth
A broken tooth, especially if it exposes the inner pulp or causes pain, should be seen immediately. Even if there’s no pain, a crack can leave the tooth vulnerable to infection. - Swelling or Abscess
Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw could indicate an infection. A dental abscess (a pocket of pus) can become serious if left untreated, potentially spreading to other parts of the body. - Bleeding That Won’t Stop
Uncontrolled bleeding after an injury, tooth extraction, or from the gums could be a sign of a serious issue and should be addressed urgently. - Lost Filling or Crown (if causing pain)
While not always an emergency, if a lost filling or crown is causing pain, sensitivity, or affecting your bite, it’s best to get it looked at quickly.
What’s Not Typically a Dental Emergency?
Not every oral issue requires same-day care. The following may feel uncomfortable but can often wait for a scheduled appointment:
- Minor tooth sensitivity
- Dull toothache with no swelling or fever
- Small chips or cracks without pain
- Lost fillings or crowns with no discomfort
- Broken orthodontic wires (unless causing injury)
What to Do If You Have a Dental Emergency
Call your dentist right away – Many clinics in Canada offer emergency slots or after-hours care.
Describe your symptoms clearly – This helps the dental team determine how urgent your case is.
Follow first-aid steps – Rinse your mouth, apply a cold compress, and take pain relief as directed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in doubt, don’t wait. Dental emergencies can escalate quickly, and early treatment is key. Most Canadian dental clinics are well-equipped to handle urgent cases — and many have protocols for fast, compassionate care.
Looking for an emergency dentist near you? Contact us now to speak with our team and get the care you need.