7 Signs You Need an Emergency Dentist in Oxford, NC

Why Dental Emergencies Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Dental problems can sneak up on you. One day everything feels fine, and the next you’re in serious pain. Whether it’s a cracked tooth or swelling in your gums, ignoring the issue can lead to bigger problems. That’s why knowing when to call an emergency dentist in Oxford, NC, is so important.



Delaying treatment can cause:

• Infection that spreads to other parts of your body.
• Permanent damage to teeth or gums.
• Higher costs for more complex procedures later.

At Henderson Family Dentistry, we treat urgent dental issues quickly and gently. Let’s look at the top signs that mean you should call us right away.

1. Severe Toothache That Won’t Go Away

A mild toothache might be manageable with pain relievers. But if the pain is sharp, constant, or keeps you awake, it’s time to act. This kind of pain could mean:



• A deep cavity.
• An infected tooth.
• A dental abscess.

These problems won’t fix themselves. You need an emergency dentist in Oxford, NC, to find the cause and stop the pain before it gets worse

2. A Knocked-Out Tooth

If a tooth gets knocked out, time is everything. You have a short window to save it. Here’s what to do:



• Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root).
• Rinse it gently with water.
• Try to place it back in the socket.
• If that’s not possible, keep it moist in milk or saliva.

Then call Henderson Family Dentistry immediately. Our emergency dentist in Oxford, NC, can often reinsert the tooth if you act fast.

3. Swelling in Your Gums or Face

Swelling in your mouth, jaw, or face is a red flag. It often means there’s an infection, like an abscessed tooth. This can be dangerous if the infection spreads.

Signs to watch for:

• Puffy or red gums.
• Pain when chewing.
• Fever or chills.



Don’t wait for it to get worse. Our emergency dentist in Oxford, NC, can treat the infection and prevent serious health risks.

4. Broken, Chipped, or Cracked Teeth

Accidents happen. You might bite down on something hard or get injured during sports. If your tooth cracks or breaks, it needs quick attention.

Even if it doesn’t hurt right away, the inner part of the tooth could be exposed. That makes it easy for bacteria to get in and cause infection.

A broken tooth can also:

• Cut your tongue or cheek.
• Become more damaged over time.
• Lead to nerve pain.



Let our emergency dentist in Oxford, NC, fix the damage and protect your smile.

5. Loose or Shifting Teeth

Adult teeth shouldn’t move. If you notice a tooth feels loose or is shifting, it could be due to:



• Gum disease.
• Bone loss.
• Trauma.

This is a serious issue. A loose tooth might fall out or affect nearby teeth. Henderson Family Dentistry can stabilize the tooth and treat the cause.

6. Bleeding or Swollen Gums

Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing might seem minor. But if the bleeding is frequent or paired with swelling, it could be gum disease.

Early gum disease (gingivitis) is treatable. But if left alone, it can turn into periodontitis, which may cause:



• Tooth loss.
• Receding gums.
• Bone damage.

Our emergency dentist in Oxford, NC, can help stop gum disease before it gets worse.

7. Sudden Sensitivity or Bad Taste

If you suddenly feel pain when eating hot, cold, or sweet foods, your teeth might be damaged. You could have:



• Worn enamel.
• Exposed roots.
• A cracked tooth.

Also, a bad taste or constant bad breath may mean there’s an infection. These are signs you shouldn’t ignore.

Visit our page on emergency dental care in Oxford to learn more about how we treat urgent dental issues.

What to Expect During an Emergency Visit

At Henderson Family Dentistry, we make emergency care simple and stress-free. Here’s what happens when you call us:



• We’ll ask about your symptoms and schedule you quickly.
• Our team will examine your mouth and take X-rays if needed.
• We’ll explain the problem and offer treatment options.
• You’ll get relief and a plan to prevent future issues.

We treat every patient with care and respect. Your comfort and health come first.

How to Prevent Future Dental Emergencies

While some emergencies are unavoidable, others can be prevented with good habits. Here are a few tips:



• Brush and floss daily.
• Visit the dentist twice a year.
• Wear a mouthguard during sports.
• Avoid chewing ice or hard candy.
• Don’t ignore small dental problems.

Regular checkups at Henderson Family Dentistry help catch issues early. That means fewer surprises and healthier teeth. Staying ahead of problems is the best way to avoid needing an emergency dentist in Oxford, NC.

When in Doubt, Call Henderson Family Dentistry

If something feels off with your teeth or gums, don’t wait. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Our emergency dentist in Oxford, NC, is ready to help you feel better fast.

Call (252) 492-6004 or visit our contact page to schedule your emergency appointment today.