Not all dental pain or injuries require an emergency room visit, but when they do, expert care is essential.
At Prestige ER, we provide rapid, high-quality emergency dental treatment for severe infections, uncontrolled bleeding, traumatic injuries, and more.
Keep reading to understand tooth pain, its causes, when to see a dentist, and when a trip to the emergency room is necessary.
Understanding Tooth Pain and Its Causes
Common Causes of Tooth Pain
- Tooth decay (cavities).
- Gum disease.
- Teeth grinding.
- Cracked teeth.
- Infections.
- Damaged dental work.
When To See a Dentist for Tooth Pain
Mild to Moderate Tooth Pain
If you’re experiencing mild to moderate tooth pain that is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms (e.g., swelling, fever, or pain when biting), visit your dentist for treatment as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
Cavities, Gum Disease, and Routine Issues
If you notice any changes in your teeth, gum, or mouth, or if it’s been more than six months since your last appointment, schedule a dentist appointment as soon as possible. Here are warning signs to watch for:
- Persistent or throbbing pain.
- Pain when biting, chewing, or swallowing.
- Increased sensitivity to hot or cold.
- Swelling or inflammation around the teeth or gums.
- Signs of cavities or gum problems (e.g., bleeding, swelling, tenderness).
- Loose or broken teeth.
- Any unusual changes in your teeth, gums, or mouth.
What a Dentist Can Do for Tooth Pain
Your dentist can diagnose and address cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. They can also provide safe pain management to help alleviate your discomfort.
If your case is complex, urgent, or requires specialized treatment, they can also refer you to a periodontist or other specialist for treatment.
When To Go to the ER for Dental Pain
Signs You Need Emergency Dental Care
If you are experiencing one or more of the following dental problems or severe dental pain, go to your nearest ER for prompt treatment:
- Uncontrolled bleeding.
- A knocked-out tooth.
- Difficulty opening your mouth or jaw.
- Jaw trauma (e.g., a broken jaw).
- Pain that is unbearable, worsening, or accompanied by warmth or redness.
Severe Infections and Abscesses
Swelling due to an infection or abscess with one or more of the following symptoms requires prompt treatment in an emergency room:
- Swelling that is impacting your ability to breathe or swallow.
- Pus draining or leaking from the infection or abscess site.
- Red streaks leading from the infection or abscess site.
- Severe swelling in the face, neck, or eyes.
- A fever of 100.4°F or higher.
- Elevated heart rate.
- Confusion.
- Nausea or vomiting.
Tooth Injuries Requiring Immediate Attention
Any tooth injury involving severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or broken facial bones requires an ER visit. If left untreated, these injuries can lead to further complications, including the spread of infection and tooth loss.
What To Expect at the ER for a Dental Emergency
ER Treatments for Dental Pain
The skilled physicians and medical staff at Prestige ER specialize in treating a broad range of urgent dental care and medical emergencies.
We help stabilize injuries, control bleeding, and treat broken, dislodged, or fractured teeth. We also realign and secure broken jaw bones and refer you to an oral maxillofacial surgeon or specialist for specialized care and follow-ups, as needed.
Pain Management and Temporary Solutions
Depending on the cause of your pain, an emergency room physician may provide immediate relief through oral or intravenous prescription-strength pain medications and antibiotics.
While Prestige ER does not perform definitive dental procedures, we can provide temporary solutions to help manage your condition until you can see a dentist or specialist. These may include:
- Temporary fillings.
- Temporary cement for lost crowns.
- Specialized dressings for exposed nerves or broken teeth.
Follow-Up Care After an ER Visit
Following emergency dental services, it is important to prioritize follow-up care with your dentist to prevent serious complications, tooth loss, or gum disease.
We provide rapid care for many medical emergencies. We are veteran-owned and dedicated to providing excellent emergency services to our San Antonio community. Our mission is to provide personalized, superior care for you and your family—365 days a year, 24 hours a day.
Find a location and visit us today.
