Tooth pain can be unbearable — but is the emergency room the right place to go? Here’s what to know if you’re in Canada and unsure what to do next.
Dental issues don’t always follow a 9-to-5 schedule. If you’ve ever been kept up at night with throbbing tooth pain, you might wonder whether you should head straight to the emergency room.
In Canada, emergency rooms play a vital role in health care — but when it comes to tooth pain, the ER might not always be the best place for treatment.
Let’s look at when it’s appropriate to go to the ER for dental pain, and when you’re better off calling a dentist directly.
When Should You Go to the ER for Tooth Pain?
In most cases, hospital emergency rooms in Canada are not equipped to treat dental issues directly, but there are exceptions.
Go to the ER or call 911 immediately if you experience:
🚨 Dental Emergencies Requiring ER Care
- Swelling that makes it hard to breathe or swallow
This could be a sign of a serious infection spreading to the throat or jaw. - Severe facial swelling with fever
May indicate a dental abscess or systemic infection needing IV antibiotics. - Trauma to the jaw, face, or head
From a fall, accident, or sports injury — especially with signs of concussion or broken bones. - Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth
Following an injury or dental procedure — needs urgent care. - Difficulty opening your mouth or speaking due to pain or swelling
May signal a severe infection or muscle involvement.
In any of the above cases, don’t wait — head to the nearest emergency room.
When to See a Dentist Instead of Going to the ER
For most tooth-related problems, your first call should be to your dentist — even after hours. Many dental offices in Canada offer emergency appointments or on-call support.
🟡 Common Non-Emergency Dental Issues
- Toothache or persistent dental pain without swelling
Usually treatable with urgent dental care — not a medical emergency. - Lost crown or filling
Uncomfortable but rarely urgent unless there’s sharp pain. - Chipped or cracked tooth (no bleeding or facial trauma)
Can be assessed and repaired at the next available dental visit. - Gum discomfort or minor swelling
Monitor for signs of infection but book a dental appointment promptly. - Broken braces or wires (not causing injury)
Call your orthodontist — hospitals won’t be able to help with orthodontic care.
Not Sure What to Do?
If you’re unsure whether your tooth pain qualifies as an emergency, call your dental clinic and explain your symptoms. Many clinics in Canada have emergency protocols, including after-hours phone lines and partnerships with urgent care providers.
As a general rule:
- Go to the ER if there’s trouble breathing, fever with swelling, or facial trauma.
- Call your dentist if you’re in pain but stable — they’ll guide you on next steps.
Final Thoughts
Tooth pain can be intense and worrying — but knowing where to turn makes all the difference.
Unless you’re facing a life-threatening emergency, most dental problems are best treated by a dentist, not at the hospital.
That said, don’t hesitate to seek urgent medical help if you’re experiencing severe swelling, trauma, or signs of infection. When in doubt, it’s always safer to check.