While a toothache or swollen face may not seem urgent, some dental issues require immediate care. Recognizing the signs of dental emergency infection can help you get the treatment you need before it gets worse.
If you are in pain, bleeding, or you have something unusual happening, and still wondering whether you should go to the dentist, then the answer is probably yes. Here are the signs you need to look for an Emergency Dentist in Wilmington and act right away.
1. Severe Toothache That Won’t Stop
A little tooth pain may not be serious. But if your tooth is throbbing or it’s so painful it keeps you up at night, that suggests the potential for a serious deep infection or nerve damage.
This is a true dental emergency, and you shouldn’t try to wait; and should call an emergency dentist right away.
2. Swelling in Your Face, Jaw, or Gums
If you notice swelling in your face or jaw, that might mean an infection may be spreading under the surface. Infections like this can worsen quickly, and sometimes they can become more dangerous.
If you have swelling along with fever, pain, or trouble swallowing, you need to find an emergency dental near you immediately.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
If your tooth was knocked out due to a fall or accident, don’t panic, but do act quickly! You have 30-60 minutes to save it. Pick it up by the crown (that is, the white part), rinse it off very gently, and try to replace it back into the socket. If that is not possible, keep it in milk, and get to an emergency dentist near you as quickly as possible.
4. Cracked or Broken Tooth
A cracked or broken tooth may not hurt right away, but it could turn into a big problem quickly. The sharp edges of a cracked tooth can cut your tongue. If bacteria enter where your tooth is cracked, it could lead to an infection very quickly.
Don’t wait for it to get worse; it’s better to see a dentist in Wilmington before it becomes painful.
5. Bleeding That Doesn’t Stop
If your mouth is bleeding heavily due to a cut, a pulled tooth, or an accident, and that bleeding doesn’t stop after 10-15 minutes, you need to find a dentist.
Uncontrolled bleeding may mean that you may require stitches or special treatment to help reduce the chance of being infected.
6. Pimple or Bump on Your Gums
If you see a swollen bump on your gums, it may be a dental abscess (an infection filled with pus), and in this case, you must see a dentist quickly. An untreated abscess may spread to your jaw and may even enter your bloodstream. You may experience pain, a bad taste in your mouth, or some swelling near the bump.
7. Lost Crown, Filling, or Dental Work
Did your crown, filling, or bridge come loose? It may not hurt right now, but you have no protection over your tooth. This can lead to sensitivity, pain, or even breakage.
Visit an emergency dental clinic near you right away to fix it and avoid more damage.
8. Pain When You Bite or Chew
If chewing suddenly hurts, it can be due to an infection, a cracked tooth, or a loose filling. Even if the pain you are experiencing comes and goes, there is generally an issue that is happening under the tooth surface.
If you get it treated fast enough, it is possible to save your tooth and avoid a root canal or, even worse, extraction.
9. Tooth or Jaw is Numb
This may sound odd, but if you have been feeling pain in a tooth and suddenly don’t feel it anymore it is generally not a good sign. It probably means that due to trauma or infection, the nerve in the tooth has died. Any numbness in the area of your tooth, jaw, or tongue is an emergency and you should see an emergency dentist as soon as you can.
10. Injury to Lips, Gums, or Tongue
Accidents happen, and this can especially occur when playing sports or during physical play. If you bit your tongue hard, cut your lip, or injured your gums and you’re unable to stop the bleeding, this is an emergency. Rinse the area with water, and if it continues to bleed or hurt after 15 minutes, you should see a dentist.
Signs You Should See an Emergency Dentist
| Problem | Why It’s Serious |
| Nonstop tooth pain | It may be an infection or nerve problem |
| Swollen face or jaw | Infection may be spreading |
| Tooth knocked out | It must be treated fast to save the tooth |
| Broken or cracked tooth | Can lead to infection or more damage |
| Bleeding that won’t stop | Needs fast care to prevent blood loss |
| Gum bump or abscess | Sign of a dangerous dental infection |
| Lost filling or crown | The tooth is exposed and at risk |
| Pain while chewing | It might be a crack or deep cavity |
| Numb tooth or jaw | Could mean a dead nerve |
| Cut lip, gums, or tongue | May need stitches or special care |
When Should You Call the Dentist?
If you’re still not sure it’s an emergency, ask yourself:
- Am I in pain?
- Is something swollen?
- Is there bleeding that won’t stop?
- Do I see a bump, crack, or missing part of a tooth?
If the answer is yes to any of these, don’t wait. It’s always better to be safe and call your dentist.
Get Emergency Help Now!
When you need dental care, Delaware Star Dental can save the day! Whether you’re feeling a sudden toothache, broken tooth, or dental injury, you can trust that we offer prompt and personable emergency care to relieve the pain and protect your smile.
At Delaware Star Dental, our team is trained to treat all types of urgent dental issues, using gentleness and modern tools. Your comfort and safety are a priority, so we always try to ensure your visit is quick and less stressful. We’ll go over every step with you so that you never feel confused or unsure.
We can help you feel better fast, so you can get back to smiling again!