June 6, 2025

Is That a Dental Emergency? Here’s How to Tell…

When a dental issue arises, it’s normal to wonder: “Is this an emergency?” At Dentist‑Acton, we help you distinguish urgent from non‑urgent so you get the right care—fast.

What is a Dental Emergency?

A true dental emergency involves immediate pain, bleeding, or trauma that could worsen quickly without professional treatment. These include:

• Severe, unrelenting toothache

• Bleeding gums or tongue from injury

• Facial swelling or abscess

• Knocked‑out (avulsed) tooth

• Broken tooth exposing the pulp

When You Should Call Us Immediately

Here are clear red flags—if you experience any, contact Dentist‑Acton without delay:

1. Intense Pain

Pain severe enough to interrupt sleep or daily function could signal irreversible pulpitis, abscess, or deep decay—conditions that worsen quickly.

2. Bleeding or Cuts

Continuous bleeding from mouth trauma, gums, or tongue—especially paired with injury—should be addressed right away.

3. Swelling in Face or Jaw

Swelling that forms a lump or impacts jaw/mouth/SOB may indicate infection like cellulitis or abscess, which can compromise breathing.

4. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion)

An avulsed permanent tooth is a race against time. Rinse it (if dirty), place it back gently if possible, or keep it moist (milk/saline), and be at the dentist within an hour.

5. A Broken or Chipped Tooth

Fractures exposing sharp edges or pulp demand same-day care to prevent infection and preserve the tooth.

6. Lost Fillings or Crowns

Eliminating jagged edges and restoring function quickly helps prevent sensitivity, decay progression, and discomfort.

When to Wait

Some situations are less urgent and can wait a few days without risking harm:

• Minor sensitivity

• Lost temporary restorations

• Slight chips without pain or sharp edges

• Mild orthodontic discomfort

Still, always make an appointment—especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

What Happens at Dentist‑Acton

As a trusted emergency dentist in Acton (36 Crown St, W3 8SB), we offer:

• Same‑day emergency bookings, even six days weekly

• Quick diagnostics (X‑rays, CT scans) to target the problem precisely

• Painless local anaesthesia and immediate care

• Comprehensive treatment to either restore or stabilise

Why Acting Quickly Matters

• Prevents spread of infection (e.g., from abscess to cellulitis to systemic health impact)

• Helps save teeth—prompt care often means avoiding extraction

• Reduces the risk of needing emergency A&E intervention, which rarely includes dental treatment

Your Decision Checklist

How to Reach Us

At Dentist‑Acton, we’re open Mon–Fri 9:00–20:00, Sat 9:00–18:00, and closed Sunday.
Call us now at 020 8896 9612 or 07490 565656, or visit our Emergency Dentist page to book online.