Patient Education
Understanding Urgent Dental Problems
When to contact a dentist about tooth pain, swelling or an injury, and when to seek emergency medical help instead.
Last updated June 6, 2026
Contact a dental professional about severe tooth pain, swelling, a dental injury, or a damaged restoration. A knocked-out permanent tooth needs immediate attention; keep it moist and handle it by the crown. Do not reinsert a baby tooth.
For trouble breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or a serious facial or jaw injury, seek emergency medical help.
Call (951) 609-0445 to discuss available dental care. Do not rely on an online form for urgent concerns.
See our emergency dental information for what to expect at an urgent visit.
Related Treatment
Emergency Dentist
Toothache, swelling, a broken tooth, or another urgent concern? Call us and tell us what is happening.
Learn about emergency dentist →