Dental Symptoms Guide
Learn what your dental symptoms might mean and when to seek care. Symptoms are listed by urgency level.
Emergency? Difficulty breathing, severe swelling, or uncontrolled bleeding? Call 911 now.
Have Multiple Symptoms?
Take our symptom quiz to get a personalized urgency assessment.
Dental Abscess
Warning SignA 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
Facial Swelling from Tooth
Warning SignSwelling in the face, cheek, or jaw area caused by dental infection, requiring urgent attention.
EMERGENCY - Immediately or go to ER
Tooth Infection
Warning SignA 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
Loose Adult Tooth
Warning SignAn adult tooth that moves or feels unstable, which is never normal and indicates underlying dental problems.
Within 24-48 hours
Cracked Tooth
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
Dead Tooth
Warning SignA tooth that no longer receives blood flow, causing discoloration (grey, black, or dark yellow) and potential infection.
Within 1-2 weeks
Toothache
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
Swollen Gums
Gum inflammation causing red, puffy, or bleeding gums, often a sign of gingivitis, periodontitis, or infection.
Within 1-2 weeks if mild
Jaw Pain
Pain in the jaw joint (TMJ) or surrounding muscles, affecting chewing, speaking, and daily comfort.
Within 1-2 weeks for mild cases
Cavity
A hole in the tooth caused by decay, starting small but growing larger and deeper if untreated.
Within 1-2 weeks
Bleeding Gums
Gums that bleed during brushing, flossing, or spontaneously, often indicating gum disease or other health issues.
Within 2 weeks if bleeding persists
Tooth Sensitivity
Sharp, sudden pain when teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet, or acidic substances, or when brushing.
Within 2-4 weeks if persistent
Persistent Bad Breath
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
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on Urgent Dental Helper is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a dental or medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.