Is Tooth Decay an Emergency? How to Recognize the Signs

August 14, 2025

Tooth decay isn’t always an emergency—but sometimes, it absolutely can be.
While early-stage cavities can be treated during a regular dental visit, severe decay that causes sharp pain, swelling, or infection should be treated immediately to prevent serious complications.


When Tooth Decay Becomes Urgent

  • Severe pain that interferes with eating or sleeping
  • Visible swelling in your face or jaw
  • Signs of infection (pus, fever, bad taste in the mouth)
  • Broken or crumbling tooth exposing nerves


If you notice any of these, you’re not just dealing with a cavity—you’re facing a potential dental emergency that can spread infection and even affect your overall health.


Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Tooth decay doesn’t heal on its own. The longer you wait, the deeper bacteria can penetrate your tooth and gums, leading to:


  • Root canal treatment
  • Tooth loss
  • Bone infection (which can be life-threatening in rare cases)


Tip: If you can’t get immediate dental care, rinse with warm saltwater, avoid extremely hot/cold foods, and take over-the-counter pain relief—but see an emergency dentist ASAP.


Minor decay can wait for your next check-up, but pain, swelling, or infection means it’s urgent. Listen to your body—your smile will thank you.


Need help now? At Schwimmer Dental in New Jersey, we provide same-day emergency dental care along with expert cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, veneers, and broken tooth repairs. 


Our caring team and advanced technology make us one of the best dental practices in New Jersey for both urgent and routine care—because your smile deserves the best.


FAQs


  • 1. Can tooth decay spread to other teeth?

    Yes—bacteria can move to nearby teeth, increasing your risk of more cavities.


  • 2. Is tooth decay always painful?

    No. Early decay often has no symptoms, which is why regular check-ups are key.


  • 3. Can I treat tooth decay at home?

    You can ease discomfort, but only a dentist can remove decay and restore the tooth.


Sources:



  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cavities/symptoms-causes/syc-20352892
  • https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10946-cavities
  • https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/tooth-decay/
  • https://medlineplus.gov/toothdecay.html
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK589664/


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Fillings at 30: What’s Average and When to Be Concerned About Cavities

October 4, 2025
Did you know the average adult has a few dental fillings by the time they’re 30? Cavities are one of the most common dental issues, and fillings are the standard treatment. But just how many fillings are normal at 30—and when should you be concerned? Research shows that most adults in the U.S. have around 3–4 dental fillings by the time they’re 30. Some lucky people have none, while others may have more if they experienced frequent cavities as kids or skipped regular dental checkups . Having a few tooth fillings in adulthood is very common and nothing to be embarrassed about. Why Some Adults Have More Fillings The number of fillings you have at 30 depends on several factors: Diet: High sugar intake often means more cavities and more fillings. Oral hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing help prevent tooth decay. Genetics: Some people are simply more prone to cavities. Dental care: Routine exams and cleanings catch cavities early before they need larger fillings. When to Worry About Cavities and Fillings A handful of fillings at 30 is normal. But if you’ve had 8–10 or more cavity fillings by age 30 , it could be a sign of high cavity risk. That doesn’t mean your teeth are unhealthy—it just means tooth decay prevention should be a bigger focus going forward.