Dental Symptoms Guide

A severe infection creating a pocket of pus in the tooth or gum, causing intense pain and swelling.

EMERGENCY - Within 24 hours or go to ER.

Swelling in the face, cheek, or jaw area caused by dental infection, requiring urgent attention.

EMERGENCY - Immediately or go to ER.

A tooth infection (abscess) is a pocket of pus caused by bacterial infection, which can occur at the tip of the root or in the gums.

Immediately or within 24-48 hours.

An adult tooth that moves or feels unstable, which is never normal and indicates underlying dental problems.

Within 24-48 hours.

A cracked tooth has a fracture that can range from minor (craze lines) to severe (split tooth), causing varying levels of pain and sensitivity.

Within a few days for minor cracks.

A tooth that no longer receives blood flow, causing discoloration (grey, black, or dark yellow) and potential infection.

Within 1-2 weeks.

Tooth pain that can range from mild sensitivity to severe throbbing, indicating various dental problems from cavities to infections.

Within 1-2 days for persistent pain.

Gum inflammation causing red, puffy, or bleeding gums, often a sign of gingivitis, periodontitis, or infection.

Within 1-2 weeks if mild.

Pain in the jaw joint (TMJ) or surrounding muscles, affecting chewing, speaking, and daily comfort.

Within 1-2 weeks for mild cases.

A hole in the tooth caused by decay, starting small but growing larger and deeper if untreated.

Within 1-2 weeks.

Gums that bleed during brushing, flossing, or spontaneously, often indicating gum disease or other health issues.

Within 2 weeks if bleeding persists.

Sharp, sudden pain when teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances, or when brushing.

Within 2-4 weeks if persistent.

Chronic bad breath (halitosis) that does not improve with regular brushing, often indicating underlying dental or health issues.

Within 2-4 weeks if home remedies do not help.