When Is It a Real Emergency?
Not every toothache is an emergency — but some dental situations require immediate care to prevent serious complications. Here are five signs that you should call us right away.
1. Severe, Uncontrollable Pain
Pain that is throbbing, keeping you awake, or not responding to over-the-counter medication typically indicates a serious issue — often an infected nerve or abscess. Don’t try to tough it out.
2. Facial Swelling
Swelling in the cheek, jaw, or around the eye almost always indicates infection. Dental infections can spread rapidly and in rare cases become life-threatening. This is always urgent.
3. A Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out permanent tooth can often be saved if you act quickly. Pick it up by the crown (never the root), keep it moist (in milk or saliva), and get to us within 30 minutes for the best chance of reimplantation.
4. Heavy Bleeding That Won’t Stop
After extractions or trauma, some bleeding is normal. But if bleeding persists after 20 minutes of firm gauze pressure, call us. Uncontrolled oral bleeding needs professional evaluation.
5. A Broken or Cracked Tooth With Pain
A broken tooth that’s causing pain may have exposed the nerve. This is both painful and a pathway for infection. A broken tooth or cracked tooth with symptoms should be seen the same day.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
- Call (503) 822-0096 immediately
- Describe your symptoms
- Follow our guidance for at-home care while you travel to us
- If you can’t reach us and have trouble breathing or swallowing, go to the ER
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, we provide same-day emergency appointments. Not sure if it’s an emergency? Use our decision guide.
Schedule Your Consultation
When you’re considering complex dental treatment, we’re happy to walk through your options. Our specialist team is located right here in the Tualatin Valley corridor. Contact our experienced clinical team today to secure your comprehensive 3D CBCT diagnostic assessment.
📍 Clinic Location: 18455 SW Alexander St, Suite B, Beaverton, OR 97006 | Serving the Portland Metro area.
Conveniently located in Beaverton, OR — serving Aloha, Hillsboro, and the Portland west side.
Related: Emergency dental care at ADSC — Same-day appointments: (503) 822-0096
Se habla Español — Llame al (503) 822-0096
Consult with Aloha Dental Specialty Center
Dental Specialty Practice • Aloha Dental Specialty Center
Specialty dental care in Beaverton, Oregon: dental implants, periodontal care, root canal therapy, pediatric dentistry, and emergency care.
