What To Do When You Have A Dental Emergency
As a family dentist at Ogden Dental Studio in Downers Grove, We’ve seen how quickly a dental emergency can happen. Whether it’s a cracked tooth, a sudden ache, or an injury during a weekend sports game, these situations can be stressful and painful. When something goes wrong with your teeth or gums, it’s hard to think clearly, and many people aren’t sure what to do next. That’s why we want to walk you through the most important steps to take when you’re dealing with a dental emergency. Knowing what to do right away can make a big difference in saving a tooth, easing pain, and preventing complications.
Dental emergencies can affect anyone—children, adults, and seniors. The most common issues we treat include knocked-out teeth, severe toothaches, cracked or broken teeth, lost fillings, and infections. These problems can happen at home, at work, during meals, or even while sleeping. If you live in Downers Grove or in nearby communities like Westmont, Lombard, Oak Brook, or Lisle, we want you to know that I’m here to help. Our goal is to relieve pain quickly and protect your long-term oral health.
Stay Calm And Act Quickly
The most important thing during a dental emergency is to stay calm and act as soon as possible. If you knock out a tooth, pick it up by the crown (not the root), gently rinse it with water, and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva and get to our office right away. Time matters here—there’s a much better chance of saving the tooth if you’re treated within an hour.
If you’re dealing with a cracked or broken tooth, try to save any pieces. Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on that side and call our office so we can assess the damage and decide on the best treatment.
Toothaches And Swelling May Point To Infection
A sudden toothache that doesn’t go away can be a sign of infection or nerve irritation. You might also notice swelling around the gums, a bad taste in your mouth, or sensitivity to hot or cold. These are signs that something deeper could be wrong. We always encourage patients to call me at the first sign of this kind of discomfort—early treatment often means a simpler solution and faster relief.
Lost Fillings Or Crowns Can Expose Your Tooth To More Damage
When a filling or crown falls out, your tooth is left exposed and vulnerable. This can lead to sensitivity, pain, or even a fracture if you continue chewing on that side. If a crown comes off, try to save it and bring it with you. We can often re-cement it or recommend the right replacement. Temporary dental cement from the drugstore can help protect the area until you’re able to come in, but it’s not a substitute for professional care.
When To Go To The Emergency Room
There are times when a dental issue may also need medical attention. If you have facial swelling that’s affecting your breathing, a deep cut that won’t stop bleeding, or signs of a serious infection (like fever, chills, or difficulty swallowing), you should go to the nearest ER. Once the immediate danger is managed, we can follow up with dental treatment to complete your care.
Prevention Helps Reduce Emergency Visits
While you can’t prevent every accident, regular dental checkups help catch potential issues before they become emergencies. We check for signs of wear, decay, cracks, and infection during your exams. Preventive care, mouthguards for athletes, and strong oral hygiene habits can go a long way in keeping your smile healthy and safe.
Dental Emergency Frequently Asked Questions
What Counts As A Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any situation involving severe pain, bleeding, trauma to the teeth or mouth, swelling, or a tooth that has been knocked out. Other urgent issues include broken teeth, infections, or anything that affects your ability to eat, speak, or go about your day without discomfort. If you’re unsure, call our dental office and we’ll help you decide what to do next.
How Soon Should I See A Dentist After A Dental Emergency?
The sooner, the better. In cases like a knocked-out tooth, you need to be seen within 30 to 60 minutes for the best chance of saving it. Other issues, like infections or broken teeth, should be addressed within a day to prevent complications. We make time in our schedule for emergencies and encourage patients to call right away.
Can I Go To The ER For A Dental Emergency?
You should go to the emergency room if you have swelling that affects your breathing, a high fever with facial swelling, or uncontrollable bleeding. Hospitals can manage life-threatening symptoms, but they usually don’t provide dental treatment. After your ER visit, contact me so we can complete your dental care.
What Can I Do At Home While Waiting To Be Seen?
Use a cold compress for swelling, take over-the-counter pain relievers as directed, and avoid chewing on the affected side. If a tooth is knocked out or broken, try to save any fragments and keep them moist. Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods if you’re experiencing sensitivity. Call our dental office as soon as possible so we can plan the right treatment.
Is It Safe To Wait A Few Days For Treatment If The Pain Goes Away?
Pain can sometimes fade, but that doesn’t mean the problem has healed. Infections and tooth damage can get worse even if symptoms improve. Waiting too long may mean more invasive treatment later, or even tooth loss. It’s always better to get a professional exam to be sure.
Call Ogden Dental Studio When You Need Emergency Dental Care
If you or someone in your family is facing a dental emergency, We are here to help. At Ogden Dental Studio, we provide fast, reliable care to relieve pain and protect your smile. We treat emergencies with the same care and urgency we would want for our own families.
Don’t wait when you’re in pain. If you’re in Downers Grove, Westmont, Lombard, Oak Brook, or Lisle, contact our Downers Grove emergency dental clinic by calling 630-271-0300 for your dental emergency. We’re ready to help you feel better, restore your tooth, and make sure your smile stays healthy and strong.