When Bleeding, Pain or Swelling Signal a Dental Emergency: Don’t Wait

Dental problems don’t always happen during business hours, and they rarely wait for a “convenient” time. Whether it’s sudden bleeding, severe pain or unexpected swelling, knowing what to do—and where to go—can make all the difference in protecting your smile and overall health.

At Ferris Family Dentistry, we understand how stressful dental emergencies can feel. That’s why we proudly offer same-day emergency appointments, so you never have to wait long for the relief and care you need.

When Is It a Dental Emergency?

Not every dental issue requires urgent attention, but certain symptoms should never be ignored. Call our office right away if you experience:

• Bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure
• Severe or persistent tooth pain that disrupts eating, sleeping or daily activities
• Swelling in the gums, jaw or face, which could indicate infection
• Trauma to the mouth, such as a knocked-out or fractured tooth
• Signs of infection, including fever or bad taste in the mouth

These situations can worsen quickly if left untreated, so prompt dental care is essential.

What You Can Do Before Your Appointment

While you wait to be seen, there are a few steps you can take to protect your oral health:

• Apply a cold compress to swollen areas to reduce pain and inflammation.
• If bleeding, gently bite down on clean gauze or a damp cloth to help control it.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with discomfort, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.
• Keep any knocked-out tooth moist in milk or saliva and bring it with you to your appointment.

Same-Day Emergency Care at Ferris Family Dentistry

When you arrive at our office, Dr. Raheel Haider and our caring team will quickly evaluate your situation using advanced digital imaging and a thorough exam. From there, we’ll recommend the best treatment to relieve pain, control infection and protect your oral health. Common emergency services may include:

• Tooth extractions (including wisdom teeth if necessary)
• Root canal therapy to save an infected tooth
• Same-day crowns or fillings to restore broken or damaged teeth
• Abscess treatment to eliminate infection and prevent spreading

Our goal is to restore comfort and function as quickly as possible—always with a focus on gentle, compassionate care.

Don’t Wait—We’re Here to Help

If you’re dealing with bleeding, pain or swelling, don’t put off treatment. Call our office for a same-day emergency appointment. We’re here to give you the relief you need and help you protect your smile for the long term.