Would an infected tooth be considered a dental emergency?

Yes: An infection of the teeth can become life threatening if it travels deeper into the tissues of the head and neck. It is important to take care of any infectiin as soon as possible.

Maybe: An acute infection where there is pain and swelling would be an emergency, but initial treatment might only consist of pain meds and antibiotics. If there is a massive swelling, the infection may need to be drained as antibiotics alone may not work fast enough. Chronic infections where there may not be much pain or swelling, aren't emergencies but shouldn't be ignored as they can become acute.

It could be: It depends on the extent of the infection, but an untreated serious infection could lead to massive swelling and airway blockage--this would be life threatening. This usually happens when there has been an infection that has been left untreated for some time and it gradually builds to a serious infection. Any swelling associated with infection should be taken very seriously.

Yes: Although not typically likely to be life-threatening, tooth infections can cause pain, swelling, and if left untreated, spread to other parts of the pharyngeal and facial spaces. These types of infections can be lethal if they cause swelling to block the airway, or travel to the brain. If you have a tooth infection, get it taken care of!

Infected tooth.....: Infected tooth is a relative term, it would be considered an emergency if you have the following Fever Swelling (facial ) or ( inside the mouth) Pain Hurts to Swallow Drainage Hurts to bite down on tooth These are all signs you need to seek treatment asap