Emergency Dentistry
An illustration of a clipboard with dental instruments and a three teeth

Emergency Dentistry

A dental emergency can happen to anyone at any time. How you respond can determine the success rate of the subsequent treatment. Some of the most common situations that require immediate action are loose adult teeth, swollen gums or parts of the face, and severe toothaches.

What Counts as a Dental Emergency?

It can be difficult to determine whether a toothache is temporary or if you need to schedule an emergency dental appointment. A dental emergency occurs when you have an oral health issue that causes significant discomfort and can’t be treated at home. Common dental emergencies include:

Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Broken or chipped teeth
Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Knocked-out teeth
Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Severe toothaches
Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Uncontrolled bleeding
Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Loose or damaged fillings
Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Damage or lost crowns or bridges
Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Damage to the soft tissues around the gums and mouth

Sometimes, there will be no doubt that you're dealing with a dental emergency. Symptoms like swelling or pus often indicate an infection that must be dealt with immediately.

A blue illustration of a damaged tooth with is surrounded by blue geometric shapes

Should I Visit an Emergency Room for a Dental Emergency?

Going to a hospital emergency room (ER) for dental care is not as effective as seeking treatment from a qualified dentist. It’s also often more expensive. The ER doctors will be able to manage pain, control bleeding and prescribe antibiotics, but they are not qualified to diagnose and treat a dental condition. Only a dentist can perform emergency tooth extractions, emergency root canals, or any other form of dental care. 


Visiting an emergency room will allow you to get antibiotics for an infection, but it won't address any underlying conditions, such as gum disease. Consequently, your chances of having another emergency room visit increase because the original issue won’t be resolved.


ER doctors can’t pull or perform operations on teeth, as it’s illegal for anyone other than a licensed dentist to perform such procedures. That’s why it’s crucial to schedule an appointment with a qualified dental professional like Dr. Kavneet Bindra if you think you’re experiencing a dental emergency.

Why Is It Important to Seek Emergency Dental Care?

Some dental emergencies expose your teeth to bacteria, which can cause more significant problems if left untreated. By getting immediate care, you can avoid potential complications and ensure that no further damage occurs.

Some dental emergencies require prompt action to produce the best results. Seeking immediate emergency care will accomplish the following:

Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Eliminate pain and discomfort
Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Save the affected tooth
Bullet point using an orange gear with white check mark on it

Prevent further damage

Other Services

LOCAL REVIEWS

Santa Clara’s Favorite Dentist

A female patient is standing at a counter in a dental office talking to Dr. Kavneet Bindra.
Share by: