Start with the problem you can see or feel

Pain without swelling

A severe toothache can come from decay, a crack, an inflamed nerve, gum disease, or another cause. The exam determines whether the tooth may need a filling, root canal, extraction, or a different treatment.

• Severe toothache
• Pain when biting
• Hot or cold sensitivity
• Pain after a temporary crown comes off

Swelling or a bad taste

A dental abscess or infection does not reliably go away on its own. Swelling near the eye, neck, or floor of the mouth—or swelling with fever or trouble swallowing—needs urgent medical assessment.

• Gum bump or drainage
• Facial swelling
• Fever with dental pain
• Bad taste plus pressure or throbbing

A tooth is broken or out

Dental trauma is time-sensitive. Protect broken pieces, avoid chewing on the area, and call promptly. A knocked-out permanent tooth has the best chance when handled correctly and treated immediately.

Choose the level of help by what is changing

You do not need to identify the diagnosis before seeking help. Start with the most serious symptom and how quickly it is changing, then use the matching guide for more detailed steps.

• Call 911 now: breathing or swallowing trouble, collapse, confusion, severe choking, or bleeding that threatens the airway.
• Use an emergency department now: rapidly spreading swelling near the eye or neck, major face or head trauma, a suspected broken jaw, or heavy bleeding that does not slow with firm pressure.
• Call a dentist today: severe or worsening tooth pain, localized swelling or drainage, fever with dental symptoms, a broken or loose adult tooth, or symptoms that worsen after treatment.
• Arrange a prompt dental visit: a painless chip, stable new sensitivity, or a lost crown or filling without swelling still needs evaluation before it becomes harder to treat.