Emergency Dentist in Tampa, FL

A true dental emergency is considered an urgent situation requiring immediate treatment to save a tooth, address severe pain, or stop bleeding. Knowing the difference between true emergencies and issues that can wait helps you respond appropriately.

Urgent Dental Emergencies: Call Us Right Away

• Knocked-out permanent tooth—Time-sensitive; the tooth may be saved if treated within an hour
• Facial or jaw swelling — Especially with fever, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems
• Abscess or serious infection — Visible swelling, pus, or severe throbbing pain
• Trauma to the jaw - Suspected broken or dislocated jaw
• Severe, persistent pain - Intense toothache that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medication

Urgent But Not an Emergency

• Lost fillings or crowns
• Cracked or chipped teeth without severe pain
• Moderate toothache
• Dull, occasional toothache
• Object stuck between teeth that won't come out
• Broken dentures or partial dentures

Can Wait for a Regular Appointment

• Minor tooth sensitivity
• Small chips with no discomfort
• Food consistently gets caught in one spot

When in doubt, call Carrollwood Village Dental for emergency dental care in Tampa, FL. Our team can assess your situation over the phone and determine how quickly we need to see you. 

For true medical emergencies involving difficulty breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or jaw trauma, visit an emergency room first, then follow up with your dentist.

Tooth pain is an emergency if it's severe, persistent, or you experience swelling, fever, or other concerning symptoms. If your tooth pain doesn't resolve with over-the-counter medication, or you can't sleep, eat, or function normally, you need to see an emergency dentist in Tampa, FL right away.

Signs of a Dental Emergency

At Carrollwood Village Dental, we urge you to call us immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:

• Severe, throbbing pain that won't subside
• Face, jaw, or gum swelling
• Fever or difficulty swallowing
• A knocked-out or severely broken tooth
• Visible pus or abscess
• Trauma to your mouth

These symptoms can indicate infection, which can spread quickly and become dangerous without treatment.

When You Can Wait to See Your Dentist

Mild to moderate sensitivity to hot or cold foods, minor discomfort when chewing, or a dull ache that comes and goes typically don't require emergency care. While you shouldn’t ignore these symptoms, you can schedule a regular appointment if they worsen.

Small chips or cracks without tooth pain can also wait, though you should call to schedule an appointment soon to prevent further damage.

Call Us If You’re Unsure

It’s always better to call your dentist and learn that your situation is not an urgent emergency than to suffer in pain. You are always welcome to call Carrollwood Village Dental at (813) 961-2200 so we can evaluate your symptoms over the phone and help you decide whether you need an emergency appointment.