Emergency Dental Care: What To Do When You Have A Dental Emergency
April 29, 2025
Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in protecting your oral health. Whether it’s a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken crown, quick action can prevent further complications. As a dentist serving Mount Prospect, Prospect Heights, and Des Plaines, I have seen firsthand how timely care can save a tooth and relieve pain. Many people are unsure whether their situation requires urgent treatment or if it can wait. Understanding what qualifies as a dental emergency and how to respond can help you make the right decision when faced with an unexpected problem.
Common Dental Emergencies And How To Handle Them
Severe Toothache
A toothache can be caused by an infection, decay, or an injury. If the pain is intense and persistent, it may indicate a more serious issue, such as an abscess. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water and taking over-the-counter pain medication can provide temporary relief, but the underlying cause needs to be addressed as soon as possible. If swelling occurs, applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce discomfort.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is one of the most urgent dental emergencies. If this happens, handling the tooth properly increases the chances of saving it. Hold the tooth by the crown, not the root, and gently rinse it with water if it is dirty. If possible, place it back into the socket and hold it in place while seeking immediate dental care. If reinsertion is not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk or saliva and bring it to my office immediately.
Broken Or Chipped Tooth
A broken or chipped tooth may not always be painful, but it can lead to sensitivity and further damage if left untreated. If a large portion of the tooth breaks off, save the pieces if possible. Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply gauze if there is bleeding. A cold compress can help with swelling, and it is important to visit my office as soon as possible to determine the best way to restore the tooth.
Lost Filling Or Crown
A lost filling or crown can leave a tooth vulnerable to sensitivity and infection. If a crown falls out, try to keep it safe and bring it with you to the dental office. Temporary dental cement, which can be found at most pharmacies, may help hold the crown in place until you see me. Avoid chewing on the affected tooth and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
Abscess Or Swelling
An abscess is a serious infection that can spread if not treated promptly. Signs of an abscess include severe pain, swelling, a pimple-like bump on the gums, and fever. Rinsing with warm salt water can help draw out some of the infection, but immediate dental care is necessary to prevent complications.
Bleeding Gums Or Injury To Soft Tissue
Injuries to the gums, lips, or tongue can cause significant bleeding. Applying gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad or cloth can help control the bleeding. If bleeding continues after 10 to 15 minutes or if the injury is severe, seeking immediate dental or medical attention is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dental Care
How Do I Know If My Dental Issue Is An Emergency?
A dental emergency typically involves severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or trauma to the teeth or gums. If you have a knocked-out tooth, an abscess, or extreme swelling, immediate care is necessary. If you are unsure whether your situation requires urgent attention, call my office, and I can help determine the best course of action.
What Should I Do If I Have A Toothache But Can’t Get To The Dentist Right Away?
If you are experiencing a toothache, rinsing with warm salt water and using over-the-counter pain medication can provide temporary relief. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek may also help with swelling. However, tooth pain should not be ignored, as it often indicates an underlying issue that needs professional treatment.
Can A Knocked-Out Tooth Be Saved?
Yes, but time is critical. If a tooth is knocked out, it should be placed back into the socket if possible or stored in milk or saliva. Seeking dental care within an hour gives the best chance of saving the tooth. The sooner you get to my office, the better the chances of reattachment.
What If My Child Knocks Out A Baby Tooth?
Unlike adult teeth, baby teeth are not typically reinserted. However, it is still important to have the child evaluated to ensure no damage occurred to the surrounding teeth or gums. Call my office to schedule an appointment so I can assess the situation.
What Should I Do If My Crown Falls Off?
If a crown comes off, try to keep it safe and avoid chewing on the affected tooth. Dental cement from a pharmacy can temporarily secure the crown, but professional treatment is needed to ensure the tooth remains protected. Call my office as soon as possible to have the crown properly reattached or replaced.
Is A Broken Tooth Always An Emergency?
Not all broken teeth require immediate treatment, but if there is pain, sensitivity, or sharp edges that could cut the tongue or cheek, prompt dental care is recommended. Even if the break is minor, I advise having it examined to prevent further damage.
What Should I Do If I Have An Abscess?
An abscess is a serious infection that requires immediate attention. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, and fever. Left untreated, an abscess can spread to other parts of the body. Rinsing with warm salt water may help, but the infection will not go away without professional treatment. Call my office right away to schedule an emergency appointment.
Can I Go To The Emergency Room For A Dental Emergency?
Hospitals are not equipped to handle most dental emergencies, but they can provide temporary pain relief for severe infections or injuries. If you experience facial trauma, severe swelling affecting breathing, or uncontrolled bleeding, seek emergency medical care first. Otherwise, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is the best option for treating dental problems effectively.
How Can I Prevent Dental Emergencies?
Good oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and wearing protective gear during sports can help prevent many emergencies. Avoid chewing on hard foods, ice, or non-food objects to reduce the risk of cracks or breaks. Addressing dental issues early can also prevent them from becoming emergencies later.
Contact Simply Teeth For Emergency Dental Care
Dental emergencies require fast and effective treatment to relieve pain and prevent further damage. Whether you have a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or another urgent dental issue, I am here to provide the care you need. At Simply Teeth, my team and I prioritize emergency cases and work to see patients as quickly as possible.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, call Simply Teeth today at 847-870-1111 to schedule an appointment. My office in Mount Prospect serves patients throughout Prospect Heights and Des Plaines, Illinois. Quick action can make all the difference, so don’t wait—contact my office today.
