Tooth pain can range from a mild nuisance to a severe, debilitating experience. When it strikes at night or over the weekend, you may find yourself wondering: should I go to the emergency room, or can this wait until I can see my dentist?

When to Go to the ER

The emergency room is best suited for life-threatening situations. Consider going to the ER for tooth pain if you experience:

• Severe swelling that is spreading to your jaw, neck, or throat (this could indicate an abscess or dangerous infection)
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• High fever accompanying dental pain
• Facial trauma from an accident or injury

When to Call Your Dentist Instead

In most cases, tooth pain — even severe pain — is best treated by a dental professional, not an ER. Emergency rooms are not equipped to perform dental procedures and typically can only provide pain relief or antibiotics as a temporary measure.

If you are in significant pain, many dental offices including Dental Professionals of Fair Lawn offer emergency appointments. Contact us right away and we will do our best to see you promptly.

Read the full clinically reviewed guide on Dentistry.com: Should You Go to the ER for Tooth Pain?

Contact our office if you’re experiencing dental pain — we’re here for dental emergencies.