What Counts as a Dental Emergency? A Guide for National City Residents

Dental pain can be frightening, especially when it happens late at night or over the weekend. One of the most common questions we receive is: "Does this count as an emergency, or can it wait until Monday?" Knowing the difference can be the factor that saves your tooth.

At Crown Dental Group, we provide fast-acting emergency treatment in National City. Here is a guide to help you identify a true dental emergency and what you should do next.

True Dental Emergencies: Call Us Immediately

If you are experiencing any of the following, you need to be seen by a dentist as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage or a spreading infection.

A Knocked-Out Tooth: This is a time-critical emergency. If the tooth is replaced within an hour, there is a high chance it can be saved. Keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva and call us while you are on your way.
Severe, Throbbing Pain: A toothache that keeps you awake or doesn't respond to over-the-counter pain medication is often a sign of a deep infection requiring a root canal.
Facial Swelling: If you notice swelling in your gums, cheek, or face—especially if it is warm to the touch—you likely have a dental abscess that needs immediate drainage and antibiotics.
A Cracked or Fractured Tooth: A major crack that extends toward the root is painful and leaves the inner pulp vulnerable to rapid infection.

Urgent, But Not a "Critical" Emergency

These issues should still be treated promptly (usually within 24–48 hours) to prevent them from turning into a crisis:

A lost filling or a loose dental crown.
Dull, manageable tooth sensitivity.
A small chip in a tooth that isn't causing sharp pain.

When to Go to the Emergency Room (ER)

If you have experienced a trauma that involves a suspected broken jaw, or if you have swelling that is making it difficult to breathe or swallow, go to the nearest ER immediately. For all other tooth-specific issues, a dentist is your best resource.

If you’re in pain, don’t wait. Call Crown Dental Group at (619) 474-6200 for immediate emergency assistance in National City.