What is considered a dental emergency?

Severe pain, swelling, bleeding that will not stop, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken tooth with sharp edges are all dental emergencies.

Should I go to the ER or to a dentist?

If you have facial swelling that affects breathing, trauma involving loss of consciousness, or uncontrollable bleeding, go to the emergency department or call 911. For tooth-specific issues, a dentist is usually faster.

What can I do for a knocked-out tooth?

Pick the tooth up by the crown (not the root), gently rinse with milk or saline, and try to place it back in the socket. If that is not possible, store it in milk and call us immediately.

Is emergency care covered by CDCP?

The Canadian Dental Care Plan covers many emergency procedures. We confirm coverage at check-in.

Emergency Dentistry

An emergency dental appointment is a same-day visit aimed at relieving pain, controlling infection and stabilising a tooth that has been damaged. We reserve daily emergency slots at every MapleLeaf Smile Dentistry location.

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Who may need this service

Severe or worsening tooth pain
A knocked-out, cracked, or chipped tooth
Swelling of the gum, jaw or face
A lost filling, crown or denture

Signs and symptoms

Throbbing pain that does not respond to over-the-counter pain relief
Bleeding that does not stop after 15 minutes of pressure
Facial swelling, fever or trouble swallowing — call 911
A loose adult tooth after trauma

Treatment process

Step 1
Phone triage
Call your nearest clinic. Our team will determine how quickly to see you.
Step 2
Examination
The dentist examines the area, takes an X-ray when needed, and identifies the cause.
Step 3
Pain control
Local anaesthetic is provided so treatment can begin immediately.
Step 4
Definitive treatment
Treatment may include a temporary filling, root canal, extraction, splinting or antibiotic prescription.
Step 5
Follow-up plan
We schedule any required follow-up to complete the repair.

Benefits

Rapid pain relief
Reduced risk of infection spreading
Best chance of saving a damaged tooth

Recovery and aftercare

Take prescribed medications exactly as directed
Eat soft foods and avoid the affected side
Keep follow-up appointments to complete treatment

Locations offering Emergency Dentistry

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Emergency Dentistry

Have questions? We've got answers. If you don't see what you're looking for, feel free to contact us.

Related services

Reviewed by: MapleLeaf Smile Dentistry Clinical Team — General Dentists registered with the Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).

Last reviewed: 2025-01-15