What Counts as a Dental Emergency?

Toothaches happen at the worst times—late at night, during the weekend, or right before a big event. But how do you know if it’s just an inconvenience or a true problem that calls for emergency dentistry? At Kutanovski Dental in Crown Point, we want our patients to feel confident knowing when it’s time to pick up the phone and call us right away.

Here’s what actually counts as a dental emergency—and what you should do if it happens to you or a loved one.

Common Dental Emergencies

Severe Tooth Pain
If you have a toothache that doesn’t go away or keeps you up at night, it could be a sign of infection or advanced decay. Severe pain is always a red flag—don’t ignore it.

Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If you act quickly (within30–60 minutes), your dentist may be able to save the tooth. Handle it by the crown (top), keep it moist in milk or saliva, and get to the dentist immediately.

Broken or Chipped Tooth
Small chips can sometimes wait, but a large break that causes pain or exposes the nerve requires urgent care.

Lost Filling or Crown
When a filling or crown falls out, it leaves the tooth vulnerable to pain, sensitivity, and further damage.

Swelling or Abscess
Swelling in the gums, jaw, or face can signal a serious infection. Left untreated, an abscess can spread and become life-threatening.

Uncontrolled Bleeding
If your gums or mouth are bleeding heavily and won’t stop, seek care immediately.

What’s Not Usually a Dental Emergency?

Not every dental issue requires immediate treatment. For example:

• A small chip without pain
• Minor sensitivity to hot or cold
• A loose retainer or orthodontic wire (unless causing injury)
  
  

These situations should still be addressed, but they don’t typically require a same-day appointment.

When in Doubt, Call Your Dentist

If you’re unsure whether your situation requires emergency dentistry, it’s always best to call. Our team at Kutanovski Dental will ask about your symptoms and help you decide the next step. Sometimes, early intervention prevents a small issue from becoming a true emergency.

‍Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Emergencies

What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Pick it up by the crown (not the root), gently rinse if dirty, and keep it moist in milk or saliva. Call us immediately—time is critical.

Can I go to the ER for a dental emergency?
Emergency rooms can help with pain and infection control, but they usually don’t provide dental treatment. Call your dentist first when possible.

How do I know if tooth pain is serious?
If the pain is severe, constant, or accompanied by swelling, it’s likely an emergency that needs immediate attention.

Why Choose Us for Dental Emergency Care in Crown Point

At Kutanovski Dental, we know that dental emergencies can be stressful and painful. That’s why we prioritize urgent cases and provide prompt, compassionate care when you need it most. From toothaches to accidents, our team is here to protect your smile. Find out why patients call Kutanovksi Dental the best dentist in Crown Point, Indiana. Contact us today at (219) 356-0216 to schedule your appointment.