Some dental emergencies can start with something that seemed small at first: a little sensitivity, a tiny chip, a filling that feels “off.”
The tricky part is this: teeth do not heal the way skin does. Once a tooth is cracked, decayed, or infected, it won’t repair itself, and time usually allows the problem to grow.
Many dental problems get worse in stages. A cavity, for example, may start in the enamel and cause no symptoms at all. But once it reaches the dentin (the softer layer underneath), it spreads faster. If it reaches the nerve, you may suddenly have intense pain, swelling, and a much more urgent treatment plan.
General Timing Guidelines
While every case is different, here’s a helpful rule of thumb:
- Same day or within 24 hours — Swelling, severe pain, trauma, bleeding, fever, or signs of infection
- Within a few days — Broken tooth, lost filling, cracked filling, or moderate pain
- Within 1–2 weeks — Small chip, mild sensitivity, or early cavity caught at a checkup
Call Us for Emergency Dental Care in Lincoln, NE
If you’re asking yourself, “Could this turn into an emergency?” there’s a good chance it could. The safest move is to call your Lincoln dentist as soon as possible. You can reach us at our Normal Blvd. dental office or our 40th St. dental office.