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Is It a Dental Emergency or Can It Wait? How to Tell

Dental problems can happen at any time, but not all issues require an emergency dentist. Some situations need immediate attention, while others can wait for a regular appointment. So, how do you know the difference?

Below, our team at Lighthouse Dental Care breaks down when you need to seek emergency dental care in Burlington, ON.

When You Need an Emergency Dentist

A dental emergency requires immediate care to alleviate. You should seek immediate care if you experience any of the following:

Severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away
Knocked-out or loose tooth due to an injury
Uncontrolled bleeding in the mouth
Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw, which could indicate an infection
Broken or fractured tooth that is causing pain or sharp edges

If you’re experiencing any of these, call an emergency dentist right away. Acting quickly can prevent further complications.

When Your Dental Issue Can Wait

Not all dental problems require urgent treatment. Some issues can be handled during regular office hours, such as:

Mild toothache that isn’t getting worse
Chipped tooth that doesn’t hurt
Lost filling or crown (as long as you’re not in pain)
Mild gum irritation without swelling or infection

Even if it’s not an emergency, it’s still important to schedule an appointment soon to prevent the issue from worsening.

Not Sure What to Do? Call Us

If you’re ever uncertain whether your situation is an emergency, it’s best to call a dental professional. At Lighthouse Dental Care, we provide urgent dental care and can guide you on the next steps. Our team will listen to your concern and advise you if you need to come in immediately or if you can schedule an appointment for a convenient time.

In general, though, if you are ever uncertain, seeking urgent dental care is the wise choice. Emergency dentistry in Burlington will address the issue and prevent it from getting worse. Immediate treatment can save your tooth and minimize long-term damage.