Chipped a Tooth? Here’s How Emergency Dental Care Can Help

What to Do When You Chip a Tooth: Emergency Dental Care in Calgary A chipped tooth can require emergency dental care depending on its severity — signs such as sharp pain, bleeding, nerve exposure, or a deeply cracked tooth mean you should contact a dentist immediately. If your chip is minor and cosmetic, it may still need prompt attention to prevent further damage or infection. Knowing what to do in the first few minutes can make a significant difference in your outcome. Is a Chipped Tooth Always a Dental Emergency? Not every chipped tooth requires an emergency visit, but many do. The key is understanding the difference between a minor cosmetic chip and one that poses a real risk to your oral health. Seek emergency dental care right away if you experience any of the following: Persistent or sharp pain, especially when biting or chewing Sensitivity to hot or cold that lingers after the source is removed Bleeding around the tooth or gums Swelling in the mouth, jaw, or face Jagged or sharp edges cutting your tongue or cheeks A tooth that is loose, deeply cracked, or has broken off entirely Visible damage close to or at the gum line When in doubt, do not wait. Contact an emergency dentist in Calgary NW to have the injury assessed before the situation worsens. What to Do Immediately After Chipping a Tooth Taking the right steps in the first few minutes after chipping a tooth can protect your oral health and improve your treatment outcome. Follow this action plan before your dental appointment: 1. Rinse Your Mouth Gently Use warm water to carefully rinse the affected area. This helps remove bacteria, blood, and food debris that could increase your risk of infection. 2. Apply a Cold Compress If your face or jaw is swelling, apply a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the outside of your cheek. Use it in 10-minute intervals to manage swelling and discomfort. 3. Control Any Bleeding If there is bleeding, gently press a clean piece of gauze or a damp cloth to the area. Maintain gentle pressure for several minutes until the bleeding slows or stops. 4. Save the Broken Fragment If a piece of your tooth has broken off, collect it carefully and store it in a small container with milk or saliva. Bring it to your dental appointment — in some cases, it can be reattached. 5. Protect Jagged Edges If the chipped tooth has a sharp edge that is cutting your tongue or cheek, you can temporarily cover it with dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum to prevent soft tissue injury until you are seen by your dentist. 6. Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief if Needed If you are in pain, an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum or tooth. 7. Call Your Dentist Right Away Even if your symptoms…

Top teeth whitening myths you need to know!

Common Teeth Whitening Myths — Debunked by Calgary NW Dentists Many teeth whitening myths lead patients to try DIY methods that can actually harm their smile. The truth is that professional teeth whitening, when performed correctly by a licensed dentist, is safe, effective, and does not damage healthy tooth enamel. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, we want to set the record straight so you can make informed decisions about your smile. Myth #1: Teeth Whitening Damages Your Enamel This is false. Professional teeth whitening does not corrode, melt, or permanently weaken tooth enamel when performed using approved products and correct techniques. Some patients experience temporary sensitivity immediately after treatment — this is normal and typically resolves within a day or two. Where damage can occur is with unsupervised DIY whitening products, incorrect concentrations of bleaching agents, or leaving products on far longer than recommended. To protect your enamel, always choose a licensed dental professional who uses Health Canada–approved whitening methods. At Expressions Dental, we offer two safe and clinically proven whitening options: ZOOM! In-Office Whitening: A fast, powerful treatment completed in a single appointment — ideal if you want dramatic results quickly. Custom Take-Home Whitening Trays: Professionally fitted trays with prescription-strength gel, designed specifically for your teeth, so you can whiten at your own pace and comfort. Myth #2: Over-the-Counter Whitening Products Work Just as Well Not quite. Pharmacy whitening strips, pastes, and trays use much lower concentrations of whitening agents than professional-grade products. While they may produce mild results, they are rarely custom-fitted to your teeth, which can lead to uneven whitening, gum irritation, and inconsistent outcomes. Professional whitening treatments available through your dentist use higher-concentration, clinically tested bleaching gels applied safely with protective measures in place for your gums and soft tissues. The results are faster, more even, and longer lasting. Myth #3: Whitening Works on All Types of Tooth Discolouration This is a common misconception. Teeth whitening is effective for extrinsic staining — discolouration caused by food, beverages (coffee, tea, red wine), and tobacco. However, intrinsic staining — which occurs inside the tooth due to ageing, trauma, certain medications (such as tetracycline), or excessive fluoride — does not respond to bleaching agents. If intrinsic staining is a concern, your dentist may recommend alternative cosmetic options such as porcelain veneers or composite white fillings to achieve a brighter, more uniform smile. Myth #4: Whitening Results Last Forever Unfortunately, no. Teeth whitening results are not permanent. How long your results last depends on your diet, oral hygiene habits, and whether you smoke or consume staining beverages regularly. Most patients can expect professional whitening results to last between one and three years with proper care. To extend your results, your dentist may recommend periodic touch-ups with take-home trays, along with regular professional teeth cleaning in Calgary to remove surface stains before they build up. Myth #5: Whitening Treatments Are Painful For most patients, teeth whitening is comfortable. Temporary sensitivity during or after treatment is possible, especially in patients who…

Is it safe to see the dentist during COVID-19? Yes!

Is It Safe to Visit the Dentist During COVID-19? Yes — visiting the dentist during COVID-19 is safe when proper infection control protocols are followed. Licensed dental clinics across Canada, including those in Calgary NW, have implemented rigorous safety measures to protect both patients and staff. Neglecting your oral health during the pandemic can lead to more serious dental issues that are harder to treat later. Why Oral Health Matters More Than Ever During a Pandemic A healthy mouth contributes directly to overall health. Research consistently shows that poor oral hygiene can increase susceptibility to infections, including respiratory illnesses. Conditions like untreated gum disease, tooth decay, and dental infections can compromise your immune response — making it more important, not less, to keep up with your regular dental care during uncertain times. Routine professional teeth cleaning and check-ups help identify problems early, reducing the need for more complex and urgent treatment down the road. If you're experiencing sudden tooth pain or swelling, don't delay — emergency dental care is available and is carried out under the same strict safety protocols. What Dental Offices Are Doing to Keep You Safe According to public health authorities, there have been no confirmed cases of COVID-19 transmission linked to dental office visits when proper protocols are followed. Licensed dental teams have adapted their practices to meet and exceed infection control standards. Here is what you can expect at a safety-compliant dental clinic: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Dentists, hygienists, and assistants wear masks, face shields, gowns, and gloves during all procedures. Enhanced sterilisation: All instruments are sterilised between patients, and high-touch surfaces are disinfected regularly throughout the day. HEPA air filtration and aerosol management: High-efficiency air filtration systems and aerosol reduction strategies minimise airborne risk during treatment. Pre-screening protocols: Patients are screened for symptoms before appointments, either by phone or upon arrival. Physical distancing in waiting areas: Seating arrangements and appointment scheduling have been adjusted to reduce crowding. Contactless check-in where possible: Digital forms and minimal paperwork reduce unnecessary contact. Hand hygiene stations: Sanitiser is available at entry points and throughout the clinic. What You Can Do Before Your Dental Appointment Patients also play an important role in keeping dental visits safe for everyone. Here are a few simple steps you can take: Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, call your dental clinic to reschedule. Arrive on time — not early. This helps manage the number of people in waiting areas at any one time. Wear a mask to your appointment and remove it only when directed by your dental team. Inform the clinic of any recent travel or exposure to confirmed COVID-19 cases. Brush and floss before your visit to support good hygiene practices for your dental team. Don't Let COVID-19 Anxiety Put Your Oral Health on Hold It's understandable to feel hesitant about visiting any healthcare setting during a pandemic. However, postponing dental care often leads to worsening conditions that may require…

Visiting a Dentist If You Have a Broken Tooth

What Should You Do If You Have a Broken Tooth? A broken tooth requires prompt dental attention, even if you are not experiencing pain. Left untreated, a broken tooth can become infected, cause significant damage to surrounding teeth, and lead to more complex — and costly — treatment. If you have chipped, cracked, or broken a tooth, contacting a licensed dentist as soon as possible is the most important step you can take. Common Causes of a Broken Tooth Teeth can break for a variety of reasons. Understanding how it happens can help you act quickly and communicate clearly with your dental team. Common causes include: Sports injuries: Contact or outdoor sports can result in sudden trauma to the mouth and teeth. Accidental falls or trips: Even a minor fall can fracture a tooth. Biting hard foods: Chewing on popcorn kernels, ice, hard candy, or similar foods is a frequent cause of cracked or broken teeth. Weakened tooth structure: Teeth with large fillings, decay, or previous damage are more vulnerable to breaking. Teeth grinding (bruxism): Chronic grinding can gradually weaken enamel and cause fractures over time. Why a Broken Tooth Is a Dental Emergency Many people assume that if a broken tooth is not painful, it can wait. This is a common — and potentially harmful — misconception. A broken tooth creates an opening that allows bacteria to enter the inner layers of the tooth, increasing the risk of infection. Signs that a broken tooth may be infected or worsening include: Throbbing, sharp, or sudden tooth pain Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks Swollen or tender gums near the affected tooth An unpleasant taste or odour in the mouth Difficulty sleeping due to persistent discomfort Jaw pain or difficulty chewing If any of these symptoms are present, do not wait. Seek emergency dental care right away. In Calgary NW, Expressions Dental offers emergency dentist appointments to address urgent dental concerns promptly. Risks of Delaying Treatment for a Broken Tooth Delaying care for a broken tooth can have serious consequences for your oral and overall health. A dental infection does not resolve on its own — it typically worsens over time. Here is what can happen when treatment is postponed: Spreading infection: Bacteria can spread from the broken tooth to neighbouring teeth, gums, and jawbone. Systemic health risk: In severe cases, a dental infection can become bloodborne, posing a wider health risk that extends beyond your mouth. Root canal treatment: If the tooth's inner pulp becomes infected, a root canal treatment may be necessary to save the tooth. Tooth extraction: If the infection progresses too far and the tooth cannot be saved, tooth extraction may be the only remaining option. Early treatment gives your dentist the best chance to restore your tooth — and to preserve your natural smile. What to Expect at Your Dental Appointment When you visit a dentist for a broken tooth, your treatment will depend on the severity and location of the break. Your…

Treatment for Chipped or Broken Teeth

Treatment Options for Chipped or Broken Teeth in Calgary NW A chipped or broken tooth is one of the most common dental emergencies, and prompt treatment is important to prevent further damage or infection. Depending on the severity of the break, your dentist can restore your tooth using options such as dental bonding, porcelain veneers, or a dental crown. If you've damaged a tooth in Calgary NW, emergency dental care is available at Expressions Dental to assess and treat your tooth as quickly as possible. Common Causes of Chipped or Broken Teeth Teeth can chip or break for a variety of reasons, even when you take precautions. Understanding the common causes can help you act quickly when an incident occurs: Sports injuries or recreational accidents — contact sports and outdoor activities carry a risk of dental trauma Biting down on hard foods — hard candies, ice, or unexpectedly hard objects in food Falls or facial impact — any blow to the mouth or jaw Tooth decay weakening the tooth structure — a cavity-compromised tooth is more susceptible to cracking Teeth grinding (bruxism) — chronic grinding can gradually fracture teeth over time Whatever the cause, it is important not to ignore a chipped or broken tooth. Even a small chip can expose the inner layers of the tooth to bacteria, leading to sensitivity, decay, or infection. Dental Treatments for Chipped or Broken Teeth 1. Dental Bonding or Composite Filling For minor chips, dental bonding with a tooth-coloured composite resin is often the most straightforward and cost-effective solution. Your dentist applies the resin directly to the chipped area, shapes it to match your natural tooth, and hardens it with a curing light. The result blends seamlessly with the surrounding enamel. It is worth noting that if the chip is in a high-stress area — such as a back molar — bonding may serve as a temporary measure. Your dentist may recommend a more durable restoration such as an inlay, onlay, or crown to provide long-term protection. Learn more about dental inlays and onlays as an intermediate option between a filling and a crown. 2. Porcelain Dental Veneers If you have chipped or broken a front tooth, a porcelain dental veneer may be an excellent option. Veneers are wafer-thin, custom-crafted shells — typically made from porcelain or composite resin — that are bonded to the front surface of the tooth to conceal damage and restore a natural appearance. Custom-designed to match the shape, size, and shade of your surrounding teeth Highly durable and stain-resistant when made from porcelain Ideal for front teeth where aesthetics are a primary concern Minimally invasive compared to a full crown Veneers are a popular choice at our Calgary NW clinic for patients looking to restore both function and a confident smile after dental trauma to visible teeth. 3. Dental Crowns When a large portion of a tooth has broken off, the tooth has significant decay, or the structural integrity of the tooth is compromised, your dentist will likely…

Managing and Preventing Dental Emergencies

What to Do During a Dental Emergency A dental emergency can occur at any time — and knowing how to respond in the first few minutes can make a significant difference in your outcome. Whether you are dealing with a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or a lost crown, taking the right steps immediately can reduce pain, prevent further damage, and improve the chances of saving your tooth. Your first call should always be to your emergency dentist in Calgary NW — but while you wait for your appointment, the following guidelines will help you manage the situation safely. Common Dental Emergencies and First-Aid Steps Toothache Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water to clear any debris. Gently use dental floss to remove any food or foreign material lodged between your teeth. Do not place aspirin directly on the aching tooth or surrounding gums — this can cause a chemical burn to the soft tissue. If the pain is severe or persistent, contact your dentist promptly for an assessment. Object Stuck Between Teeth Try to carefully remove the object using dental floss. Never use sharp or pointed instruments such as pins or toothpicks, as these can injure your gums or damage your tooth enamel. If you cannot dislodge the object with floss, visit your dental clinic rather than forcing it out. Bitten Tongue or Lip Gently clean the area with water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling and discomfort. If the bleeding is heavy or does not stop within 15 minutes, seek emergency medical care immediately. Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth Time is critical when a permanent adult tooth has been knocked out. Handle the tooth by the crown only — do not touch the root. Rinse it gently with water if dirty, but do not scrub it. Place it in a small container of milk or hold it between your cheek and gum to keep it moist. Contact your dentist immediately, as there is often a window of opportunity to replant the tooth successfully. For situations like this, our emergency dental care team is here to help. Lost Dental Crown If a crown falls off, keep it safe and call your dentist as soon as possible. You can use a small amount of dental cement — available at most pharmacies — to temporarily reattach the crown until your appointment. Avoid chewing on the affected side. Learn more about how crowns are restored with our dental crowns service in Calgary NW. How to Prevent Dental Emergencies While not every dental emergency can be avoided, many can be significantly reduced with consistent care and smart habits. Here are practical prevention steps recommended by our experienced dental team in Calgary NW: Wear a mouthguard during contact sports or physical activities to protect your teeth from impact. Never use your teeth as tools — avoid opening packaging, biting fingernails, or chewing on pens and ice, as these habits can crack or fracture teeth. Attend regular dental check-ups so your dentist can identify and treat…

Emergency Dental Services in Calgary

Emergency Dental Services in Calgary – Same-Day Relief When You Need It Most A dental emergency can strike without warning, and getting prompt care is critical to relieving pain, preventing infection, and saving your tooth. At Expressions Dental in Calgary NW, we prioritise emergency patients and offer same-day appointments so you are never left waiting in pain. If you are experiencing a dental crisis, call us immediately at (403) 252-7733. Whether you have a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a painful abscess, our licensed dental team is equipped to assess and treat your emergency quickly and compassionately. We welcome walk-in patients and understand that dental pain cannot always be scheduled. What Counts as a Dental Emergency? Not every dental concern requires urgent attention, but the following situations should be treated as emergencies. If you are unsure, it is always better to call — our team will help you determine the right next step. Severe or throbbing toothache – Persistent pain that does not subside may signal an abscess or deep decay requiring immediate treatment. Learn more about root canal treatment in Calgary NW if the pain is coming from deep within the tooth. Knocked-out tooth – Time is critical. A tooth re-implanted within 30 to 60 minutes has the best chance of being saved. Call us immediately and store the tooth in milk or saliva while you travel to our clinic. Cracked or fractured tooth – Sharp pain when biting or a visible crack requires urgent assessment to prevent further damage. A dental crown may be recommended to protect and restore the tooth. Lost or broken dental crown or filling – Exposed tooth structure can be sensitive, painful, and vulnerable to infection. Our team can re-cement or replace crowns and provide temporary protection while a permanent restoration is arranged. Dental abscess or facial swelling – Swelling, fever, or a pimple-like bump on the gum can indicate a serious bacterial infection that requires immediate care. Left untreated, a dental abscess can spread and become life-threatening. Broken or damaged dental appliance – Damaged braces, dentures, or retainers can cut or injure soft tissues if left unaddressed. Contact us as soon as possible so we can assess the damage and protect your mouth. Bleeding that will not stop – Uncontrolled bleeding from the gums or mouth following an injury or extraction requires prompt professional assessment. Lost or impacted wisdom tooth pain – Sudden, severe pain at the back of the mouth may indicate an impacted or infected wisdom tooth. Our team provides wisdom teeth removal in Calgary NW when extraction is required. What to Do Before You Reach Our Clinic Taking the right steps while you make your way to Expressions Dental can make a meaningful difference in your outcome. Here is what to do in the most common emergency situations: Knocked-Out Tooth Handle the tooth only by the crown — never the root. Rinse it gently with water if dirty, but do not scrub it. Place it back in the socket…

Fractured Tooth

What Is a Fractured Tooth? A fractured tooth is a tooth that has cracked, chipped, or broken — ranging from a hairline crack that is barely visible to a significant break that exposes the inner nerve. Fractures vary widely in severity: some cause no immediate pain, while others require urgent dental care to prevent infection or permanent tooth loss. If you suspect you have a fractured tooth, contacting a licensed dentist as soon as possible is strongly recommended. Common Causes of Fractured Teeth Tooth fractures can happen to anyone, and understanding the causes can help you protect your smile. The most common causes include: Biting down on hard foods — hard candies, ice cubes, popcorn kernels, or crusty bread can crack even healthy teeth. Physical trauma — a fall, sports injury, or impact to the face or mouth is a leading cause of fractured and chipped teeth. Teeth grinding (bruxism) — chronic grinding places repeated pressure on teeth over time, gradually weakening enamel and increasing fracture risk. Large existing fillings — teeth that contain large fillings have less natural tooth structure remaining, making them more susceptible to cracking. Sudden temperature changes — consuming very hot food or drinks followed immediately by something cold can stress and weaken enamel. Tooth decay — cavities compromise the structural integrity of a tooth, making fractures significantly more likely. If teeth grinding is a contributing factor, your dentist may also assess for related jaw concerns. Learn more about TMJ Treatment at our Calgary NW clinic. Signs and Symptoms of a Fractured Tooth Not all tooth fractures are immediately obvious, and some minor chips cause no discomfort at all. However, the following symptoms often indicate a fracture that warrants professional attention: Pain when biting or chewing — particularly sharp or sudden pain when pressure is applied Sensitivity to hot or cold — lingering sensitivity to temperature that does not resolve quickly Intermittent or persistent toothache — pain that comes and goes or is constant Swelling around the affected tooth — may indicate infection or damage to surrounding tissue A visible crack, chip, or rough edge — you may be able to feel the fracture with your tongue Discomfort that is difficult to pinpoint — some fractures cause diffuse pain that is hard to localise Types of Tooth Fractures Tooth fractures are classified by their location and severity. Understanding the type of fracture helps determine the appropriate treatment: Craze lines — superficial cracks in the enamel only; common in adults and usually require no treatment. Fractured cusp — a piece of the chewing surface breaks off, often around an existing filling. Rarely affects the nerve. Cracked tooth — a crack extends from the chewing surface toward the root. Early treatment is essential to prevent the crack from spreading. Split tooth — a tooth that has split into two distinct segments, usually the result of an untreated cracked tooth. May not be fully salvageable. Vertical root fracture — a fracture that begins at the root and extends upward.…

What to do if Tooth is pushed out of Position?

What to Do If a Tooth Is Pushed Out of Position If your tooth has been knocked loose or pushed out of its normal position, call an emergency dentist immediately — this is a dental emergency that requires urgent professional care. Acting correctly within the first few minutes can be the difference between saving and losing the tooth. The steps below will help you manage the situation safely until you are seen by a licensed dental professional. Immediate First-Aid Steps for a Displaced Tooth While you arrange your emergency dental appointment in Calgary NW, follow these steps to minimise further damage to the tooth and surrounding tissues: Gently reposition the tooth using very light finger pressure to guide it back toward its normal alignment. Never force it — if it does not move easily, leave it in place. Bite down carefully to hold the tooth in position and prevent it from shifting further. Use gauze or orthodontic wax — bite gently on a clean piece of gauze, or mould soft orthodontic wax over the displaced tooth and the surrounding teeth to temporarily stabilise it. Eat only soft foods and avoid chewing on the affected side until your dentist has assessed the injury. Avoid touching or prodding the tooth unnecessarily, as this can disrupt the surrounding periodontal ligaments and soft tissue. Once you are seen by your dentist, they may splint the displaced tooth to the adjacent healthy teeth. This holds it in the correct position while the supporting bone and ligaments heal — a process that typically takes several weeks. What If the Tooth Has Completely Come Out? If the tooth has been fully knocked out (avulsed) and cannot be placed back into the socket, follow these steps immediately: Pick up the tooth by the crown (the visible white part) — never handle it by the root. Rinse it gently with clean water or milk if it is dirty. Do not scrub, dry, or wrap it in tissue. Keep it moist — place it in a small container of cold milk, saline solution, or if nothing else is available, hold it between your cheek and gum while you travel to your dentist. Get to a dentist within 30 to 60 minutes — the sooner you arrive, the greater the chance of successful reimplantation. Note: These guidelines apply primarily to permanent (adult) teeth. A knocked-out baby tooth is generally not reimplanted, as doing so could damage the developing adult tooth underneath. Always call your dentist for guidance specific to your child's situation. You can also explore our dental care for children in Calgary to understand how paediatric dental injuries are managed. Why Is a Displaced Tooth Considered a Dental Emergency? A tooth that has been pushed out of position has sustained trauma not only to the tooth itself but also to the periodontal ligament — the network of fibres that anchors the tooth root to the jawbone. If left untreated, the tooth may die, become infected, or be lost entirely. In…

How to Handle Dental Emergencies?

How to Handle a Dental Emergency: Step-by-Step First Aid Guide A dental emergency can happen at any time — during a meal, a sports game, or even while you sleep. Knowing what to do in the first few minutes can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. This guide provides clear, practical steps you can take immediately after a dental injury while you arrange to see your dentist as soon as possible. If you are in the Calgary NW area and need urgent care, contact the Emergency Dentist NW Calgary team at Expressions Dental right away. Time matters — especially for certain injuries. Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do 1. Cracked or Fractured Tooth A cracked tooth can expose the sensitive inner layers of your tooth, causing significant pain and increasing the risk of infection if left untreated. Even a small crack can worsen quickly without professional assessment. What to do immediately: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area. Avoid putting pressure on that side of your mouth while chewing. Do not apply topical pain-relieving gels directly to the tooth or gum — this can mask symptoms your dentist needs to assess. Avoid cold foods and beverages until the tooth has been examined and treated. Contact your dental office promptly — cracks can deepen rapidly without treatment. Depending on the severity, a cracked tooth may require a dental crown to protect and restore the tooth, or in more serious cases, root canal treatment to save it from extraction. 2. Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion) A knocked-out permanent tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies you can face. Acting quickly — ideally within 30 minutes — significantly improves the chance of successfully re-implanting the tooth. What to do immediately: Do not touch the root. Pick up the tooth by the crown (the visible white part). Gently rinse the tooth with clean water if it is dirty — do not scrub or use soap. If possible, gently place the tooth back into the socket and hold it in position by biting down softly on a clean cloth. If you cannot re-insert it, store the tooth in a small container of milk or hold it between your cheek and gum to keep it moist. Do not store it in plain water. Get to your dentist or an emergency dental clinic within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth. For children, it is important to note that baby (primary) teeth are not usually re-implanted, as doing so can interfere with the development of permanent teeth. If your child knocks out a tooth, contact your dental office for guidance. Learn more about dental care for children and how we support young patients through dental injuries. 3. Severe Toothache A severe or persistent toothache is rarely something to wait out. It often signals an underlying issue such as deep decay, a cracked tooth, or a dental abscess — all of which require professional treatment. What to…