Not every dental problem can wait. At Dentistry By Design in Richardson, TX, we often see patients who delay care, thinking their symptoms will go away on their own—only to find themselves in serious pain or at risk for long-term damage. The truth is, certain oral health issues require immediate attention. If you live in Richardson, Plano, Garland, Murphy, or North Dallas, and experience any of the symptoms below, it’s time to contact a dentist immediately.
Here are 6 oral issues that should always be treated as dental emergencies:
1. Severe Tooth Pain
Persistent, throbbing, or sharp tooth pain is a red flag. While mild sensitivity may not always be urgent, sudden or worsening pain often indicates infection, deep decay, or trauma to the nerve. According to the CDC, over 40% of adults experience mouth pain each year—but ignoring it can lead to root damage, abscesses, or even tooth loss.
Don’t wait it out. If you feel pain that interferes with eating, sleeping, or concentrating, call us right away.
2. Cracked or Broken Tooth
Cracks can start small but worsen quickly—especially when chewing. Whether the break is due to biting something hard, a sports injury, or teeth grinding, it leaves your tooth vulnerable to infection and further damage.
If you’re in neighborhoods like Duck Creek, Canyon Creek, or Arapaho Heights, and suffer a cracked or chipped tooth, call our office immediately for emergency care. Prompt attention can often save the tooth and prevent the need for extraction or more invasive treatment.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
A completely dislodged tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If you act quickly—ideally within 30 minutes—there’s a strong chance the tooth can be re-implanted successfully. Gently rinse the tooth, avoiding contact with the root, and place it in milk or a saline solution while you head to our office.
Residents in Springpark, Yale Park, or surrounding Richardson suburbs can reach our clinic quickly for emergency intervention.
4. Swelling or Abscess
Facial or gum swelling, especially when accompanied by a bad taste, fever, or difficulty swallowing, often indicates a dental abscess—a serious infection that can spread rapidly if left untreated. This is not something to wait on, as untreated abscesses can lead to sepsis or bone damage.
We offer urgent drainage, antibiotics, and treatment options to control infection and preserve your oral health.
5. Bleeding That Won’t Stop
Minor bleeding from brushing too hard is common—but spontaneous or uncontrollable bleeding from the gums, tongue, or soft tissues is not. It could be a sign of trauma, gum disease, or a clotting issue.
If you’re bleeding after a dental procedure and it doesn’t stop after 30 minutes of pressure, call us immediately. The same applies to any oral injuries from accidents.
6. Jaw Pain or Locking
Pain in the jaw, especially near the TMJ (temporomandibular joint), may be caused by dislocation, trauma, or joint dysfunction. If your jaw locks, pops painfully, or you’re unable to open or close your mouth fully, it’s time to seek emergency care.
Residents in Breckinridge Park or Owens Park neighborhoods often come to us with these symptoms, and early intervention helps avoid worsening conditions.
When to Call Dentistry By Design
At Dentistry By Design, we offer prompt, compassionate emergency dental care to patients throughout Richardson and nearby communities like Plano, Garland, Murphy, and North Dallas. Our team has the tools, training, and availability to handle dental emergencies efficiently and effectively, so you can avoid further complications and get back to feeling like yourself.
If you’re in pain, swollen, bleeding, or something just feels off—don’t wait. Call us today for urgent dental care that prioritizes your health and comfort. We’re here when you need us most.