
Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, whether it’s a sudden toothache or a broken tooth. Knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in minimizing pain, preventing further damage, and preserving your smile. At Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center, we’re here to provide expert emergency dental care when you need it most.
Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them
1. Severe Toothache
A persistent or severe toothache can indicate an underlying issue such as an infection or tooth decay. Here’s what to do:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.
- Gently floss to remove any food particles that may be causing irritation.
- Avoid applying aspirin directly to the tooth, as it can damage your gums.
- Use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling if necessary.
If the pain doesn’t subside, contact us immediately for an evaluation. For more on handling tooth pain, visit the American Dental Association (ADA) guide on toothaches.
2. Broken or Chipped Tooth
Accidents can cause teeth to chip or break. To handle this situation:
- Save any pieces of the tooth you can find and rinse them gently with warm water.
- Rinse your mouth to clean the area.
- Apply gauze to stop bleeding if needed and use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
Prompt dental care can repair the damage with treatments like bonding, veneers, or crowns. Learn more about what to do for a broken tooth by visiting WebMD’s dental emergencies guide.
3. Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth can often be saved if you act quickly:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root) and rinse it gently with water. Avoid scrubbing.
- Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket if possible. If not, store it in milk or a tooth preservation kit.
- Seek emergency dental care within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown comes loose:
- Keep the area clean by rinsing your mouth with warm water.
- If you still have the crown, apply dental cement (available at most drugstores) and place it back over the tooth temporarily.
- Avoid chewing on that side until you can visit us for a permanent solution.
5. Soft Tissue Injuries (Gums, Lips, or Tongue)
Cuts or injuries to the soft tissues of your mouth can bleed heavily:
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Apply pressure with a clean piece of gauze or a tea bag to stop bleeding.
- Use a cold compress to manage swelling and discomfort.
If the bleeding doesn’t stop within 15 minutes, seek emergency care.
When to Call Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center
If you’re unsure whether your situation is a true dental emergency, it’s better to be safe and give us a call. Delaying care can often lead to more complicated issues. At Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center, we prioritize your comfort and can provide same-day emergency appointments at our Lakeview or Deerfield locations.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
While accidents aren’t always avoidable, taking these steps can reduce your risk:
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities.
- Avoid chewing hard items like ice, pens, or popcorn kernels.
- Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent cavities and gum disease.
Contact Us for Emergency Dental Care
If you’re facing a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to reach out to Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center. Call us at (773) 525-5545 for our Lakeview office or (224) 282-8939 for our Deerfield office. Our experienced team is ready to help you restore your smile quickly and effectively.