Emergency dentists provide prompt treatment for people who experience injuries and illnesses pertaining to their teeth and gums. Dental emergencies can come in many forms, but cavities and tooth infections are some of the most common complaints. Differentiating a dental emergency from a non-emergency can help you make the right kind of appointment with your dentist. Here are four warning signs that can let you know if your cavity is a dental emergency:

1. Your tooth hurts 

Tooth pain is one of the most common signs of a dental emergency. Many cavities can go undetected for months until they are diagnosed via x-ray since they cause no symptoms. However, other cavities can cause mild to severe pain. You should never have to put up with untreated dental pain. Having cavities drilled and filled can alleviate your pain. Many dentists can make same-day appointments for patients who are struggling with tooth pain.

2. Your gums are bleeding or expelling pus

Gums that bleed or expel pus can signify a tooth infection. Once tooth infections travel through the tooth pulp and into the root, they can cause gum disease. Healthy gums should be pink and uninflamed, and they should not bleed. If your gums are red and puffy, you may have a serious cavity that is causing a gum infection. Gum infections should be treated with antibiotics and root canal therapy, if necessary. This can prevent worse problems, such as jaw bone erosion.

3. You are unable to eat or drink normally

Enjoying your favorite food and drinks can be one of life's greatest pleasures. Unfortunately, tooth decay can interfere with your ability to eat and drink. Sensitivity to heat, cold, and pressure are all symptoms of serious tooth decay. If you feel pain when you bite or chew your food or when you drink hot or cold liquids, you should make an emergency appointment with your dentist.

4. Your tooth is loose

Teeth are normally firmly situated in the mouth, held in place by a person's jawbone and gums. However, severe tooth decay can lead to jawbone erosion, which can cause teeth to become loose. It's important that you don't ignore loose teeth. When caught early, loose teeth may be able to be saved through cavity treatment and other situation-specific treatments. If your tooth is too far gone to remain in your mouth, a dentist can perform an extraction to safely remove it.