Dental emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time. Knowing when a dental issue requires immediate care can help you avoid unnecessary pain, complications, and costly treatments. At Krusich Dental, we provide prompt, compassionate emergency care for patients in Leawood when it matters most.
If you’re unsure whether your situation is urgent, this guide will help you decide.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any problem that involves pain, infection, trauma, or risk of permanent damage. Common emergencies include:
- Severe or persistent tooth pain
- Facial swelling or gum swelling
- A knocked-out or loose tooth
- A cracked, broken, or fractured tooth
- Lost crowns or fillings causing pain
- Signs of infection such as pus, fever, or bad taste
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop
Ignoring these symptoms can allow infection or damage to spread quickly.
Tooth Pain: When It’s More Than a Nuisance
Occasional sensitivity may not be urgent, but intense or throbbing pain is often a sign of deeper problems such as decay, infection, or nerve involvement. Pain that wakes you up at night or worsens over time should be evaluated as soon as possible.
An emergency exam allows your dentist to determine whether you need a filling, root canal, or other immediate treatment.
Swelling Is a Red Flag
Swelling in the gums, jaw, or face should never be ignored. It often signals infection, which can become serious if left untreated. Dental infections can spread beyond the mouth and impact overall health.
If you notice swelling, tenderness, or warmth around a tooth, contact an emergency dentist right away.
What to Do if a Tooth Is Knocked Out
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most time-sensitive dental emergencies. Acting quickly improves the chances of saving the tooth.
- Handle the tooth by the crown (not the root)
- Gently rinse it if dirty—do not scrub
- Place it back in the socket if possible, or keep it in milk
- Seek dental care immediately
Prompt emergency treatment can often preserve the natural tooth.
Broken Teeth and Lost Restorations
Cracked teeth, broken fillings, or lost crowns may expose sensitive inner tooth layers, leading to pain and infection. Even if discomfort is mild, delaying treatment can turn a manageable problem into a more complex one.
Emergency care helps stabilize the tooth and prevent further damage.
Why Seeing an Emergency Dentist Quickly Matters
Early treatment can:
- Relieve pain faster
- Prevent infection from spreading
- Reduce the need for extensive procedures
- Save natural teeth
- Lower overall treatment costs
Many dental emergencies worsen rapidly without professional care.
Emergency Dental Care at Krusich Dental
Our Leawood dental team prioritizes comfort, clarity, and efficient care during emergencies. We focus first on relieving pain and stabilizing the issue, then creating a plan for long-term oral health.
If you’re experiencing urgent symptoms, visit our emergency dentistry page to learn more about what to expect.
When in Doubt, Call
If something doesn’t feel right, it’s always better to have it checked. Whether you’re dealing with pain, swelling, or dental trauma, Krusich Dental is here to help Leawood patients get relief quickly and safely.
📞 Call (913) 383-2600 or reach out through our contact page.
