Dental emergencies don’t wait for convenient timing. Knowing whether your situation requires immediate care — or can wait for a routine appointment — can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. SmileNOW Dental in Corona, CA offers same-day emergency appointments. Here are five signs you should call us right away.
1. Severe or Persistent Toothache
Occasional tooth sensitivity to hot or cold is common and usually minor. But sharp, throbbing, or constant tooth pain — especially pain that wakes you at night — is a warning sign. It often indicates an abscess, deep decay reaching the nerve, or a cracked tooth. These conditions worsen without treatment and can lead to serious infection if ignored.
Do not take aspirin and place it directly on the tooth or gum — this can burn tissue. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever as directed and call our office immediately.
2. Swelling in the Jaw, Gum, or Face
Swelling is one of the most serious dental symptoms. A dental abscess — a pocket of infection at the root of a tooth or in the gum — can spread to the jaw, neck, and even the airway if left untreated. If you notice swelling accompanied by fever, difficulty swallowing, or a bad taste in your mouth, this is a dental emergency that requires same-day care.
3. A Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out (avulsed) tooth can often be saved if you act within 30 to 60 minutes. Pick up the tooth by the crown (never the root), rinse it gently with water without scrubbing, and place it back in the socket if possible. If that’s not possible, keep it moist in a glass of milk or between your cheek and gum while you call us immediately.
Time is critical — the longer the tooth is out of its socket, the lower the chance of successful reimplantation.
4. A Cracked or Broken Tooth
A minor chip without pain can usually wait for a scheduled appointment. But if a crack runs vertically, causes pain when biting, or exposes the inner pulp of the tooth, it needs prompt attention. Untreated cracks can deepen, lead to infection, and ultimately require root canal treatment or extraction.
Rinse with warm water and apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek to reduce swelling. Avoid biting on the affected side.
5. Lost Filling or Crown
A filling or crown that falls out exposes the underlying tooth structure to bacteria, temperature changes, and further damage. While it may not hurt immediately, the tooth is vulnerable. In the meantime, dental cement (available at most pharmacies) can temporarily protect the area. Call us to get it properly restored as soon as possible.
When In Doubt, Call Us
If you’re unsure whether your situation is an emergency, call SmileNOW Dental at (951) 735-7300. Our team will assess your symptoms over the phone and advise whether you need a same-day slot. Serving Corona, Riverside, Norco, Eastvale, and Yorba Linda — we’re here when you need us most.
Request an emergency appointment online or call us directly any time during office hours.