Every year, Americans make nearly 1.9 million trips to the emergency room for dental problems, yet many of these cases could have been treated more effectively in a dental office. Because dental emergencies often strike without warning, it can be hard to know where to turn in the moment. The choice between visiting your dentist or the ER can affect not only your health, but also the time, cost, and outcome of your care. Understanding the difference is key: the right decision often means quicker relief, lower expenses, and better long-term results. 

Continue reading to learn exactly where to go when a dental emergency happens and where to find the best dentist in Robbinsville Township for dental emergencies. 

When to See a Dentist First: Common Dental Emergencies That Can be Fixed in a Dental Office

Most dental emergencies are best handled by a dentist, especially if you’re dealing with:

  • Tooth pain or gum swelling that is persistent or keeps coming back 
  • Tooth injuries, such as a chipped, cracked, or even knocked-out tooth
  • Lost filling or dental crown 

In short, for most tooth- and gum-related problems that don’t involve life-threatening symptoms, a dentist is the go-to expert who can provide permanent solutions instead of temporary fixes.

When Should You Visit the Emergency Room for Dental Pain or Tooth Injury

There are a few dental emergencies that require immediate emergency room care, and it’s important to learn how to recognize the red flags of a dental emergency that requires an ER visit: 

  • Heavy or persistent bleeding from the mouth, especially if it doesn’t stop or slow after applying firm pressure.
  • Trauma to the face or a suspected broken jaw. Facial trauma includes deep cuts, visible fractures, or an inability to close your mouth properly. These symptoms should be evaluated in the ER to prevent long-term damage. 
  • Severe swelling that spreads to your jaw, neck, or throat, especially if it makes it hard to breathe or swallow. These cases can signal a spreading infection, especially when accompanied by fever. An infection may become life-threatening if left untreated.

What to Do for Common Dental Emergencies

When a dental emergency strikes, knowing a few quick steps can help you stay calm and protect your teeth until you reach a dentist:

‍Persistent toothache

  • Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to clear away debris.
  • Use dental floss to make sure nothing is stuck between your teeth.
  • Take an over-the-counter pain reliever if needed, but never put aspirin directly on the gums, as it can irritate the gums.
  • Call an emergency dentist as soon as possible to identify and treat the cause of the pain.

Knocked-out tooth

  • Pick up the tooth by the crown, not the root.
  • If it’s dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saliva. Be sure to avoid scrubbing or removing tissue.
  • If possible, try to place the tooth back into its socket or store it in a container of milk or saliva. 
  • See an emergency dentist immediately. Getting treatment within 30 minutes offers the best chance of saving the tooth.

‍Bleeding from the mouth

  • Apply gentle pressure with a clean piece of gauze or a damp cloth directly to the bleeding area for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Stay upright and avoid lying down, which can increase blood flow to the head and make bleeding worse.
  • Use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek to help reduce swelling.
  • Seek emergency dental care, especially if the bleeding does not stop with pressure, or if it is caused by facial trauma. 

Finding the Best Dentist in Robbinsville Township for Emergency Dentistry

A dental emergency can turn an ordinary day upside down, which is why at Mercer Smiles in Robbinsville Township, we make it our mission to provide relief quickly and compassionately. From sudden toothaches to broken crowns or oral injuries, our team is prepared with the latest technology and expertise to address urgent needs the moment they arise. We offer extended hours and same-day emergency appointments in a welcoming environment that is designed to ease stress during what can be an overwhelming time. 

Looking for the best dentist in Robbinsville Township for emergency dental care and a dental team committed to helping you regain comfort, confidence, and peace of mind?