How to Know If It’s a Dental Emergency or If It Can Wait Until Morning

Young woman touching her mouth in pain from a dental emergency, in need of care.

Dental emergencies can appear suddenly and cause discomfort, pain, or damage that needs timely attention. Knowing which symptoms signal a true emergency can help you take the necessary steps to protect your health.

Dr. Aman Sidhu, D.D.S., received his Doctor of Dental Surgery with honors from the University of Southern California and brings years of clinical and teaching experience to his role at Densley Dental. As the official team dentist for the Las Vegas Raiders, Dr. Sidhu is known for providing expert care when it matters most. If you’re dealing with dental pain, injury, or swelling, identifying whether the condition is urgent is the first step toward the right treatment.

What is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is a condition that needs immediate treatment to relieve severe pain, control bleeding, or save a tooth. Some symptoms can also signal an infection that may affect overall health.

Situations considered true dental emergencies include:

  • A knocked-out or severely broken tooth
  • Persistent, severe tooth pain that worsens or prevents sleep
  • Bleeding from the mouth that doesn’t stop
  • Facial or gum swelling, especially with fever or difficulty swallowing
  • A visible abscess or pus-filled bump on the gums

These conditions should be evaluated as soon as possible to prevent long-term complications.

What Can Likely Wait Until Morning

While all dental concerns deserve attention, not every problem requires urgent care. Some issues, although uncomfortable, may be managed temporarily at home until a scheduled appointment can be made.

Examples of non-urgent dental concerns include:

  • A chipped tooth without pain or sharp edges
  • Minor tooth sensitivity that comes and goes
  • A loose crown or lost filling with no pain
  • Mild gum irritation or occasional bleeding when brushing
  • Food stuck between teeth that doesn’t cause discomfort

If the symptoms are stable and manageable, calling the dentist during regular hours is often appropriate.

When You’re Not Sure

Some dental symptoms fall into a gray area, making it difficult to determine whether the situation requires emergency care. If you’re unsure, the safest first step is to contact Densley Dental. Emergency calls are accepted outside of regular business hours, and messages are reviewed promptly to help guide the next steps.

If the pain is intense, swelling increases, or the issue involves trauma, don’t wait for it to worsen. Acting quickly can prevent complications and ensure you get the care you need without delay.

Expert Emergency Dental Care in Henderson, NV

Residents in Henderson, NV, can count on Densley Dental for prompt attention to relieve pain, prevent further damage, and protect their smile. If you’re experiencing symptoms that feel urgent or are getting worse, don’t wait. 

Call Densley Dental at 702-212-6641 to speak with a team member or begin the process of scheduling a consultation. Seeking help now can prevent a minor issue from escalating into something more serious. Peace of mind starts with a simple call.

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Monday: 8am – 5pm
Tuesday: 9am – 6pm
Wednesday: 9am – 5pm
Thursday: 9am – 6pm
Friday: 8am – 5pm
Saturday: By Appointment

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