If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call our office at (708) 694-9849 to be advised on how to proceed.
Dental emergencies can occur anytime and should be addressed promptly for the best possible outcome. We try to see your emergency on the same day if deemed necessary.
Common Dental Emergencies
Any type of trauma to the teeth, gums, or jaw joints can be considered a dental emergency. Several common emergencies need immediate attention:
- Knocked-out tooth: if a tooth has been knocked out, it is important to be seen as soon as possible, either in our dentist office or in a hospital ER, if there are other traumas to the face, neck, or body. If possible, locate the knocked-out tooth, and after rinsing it in cool water, try to place it back into the socket. If it is possible to transport it this way, it may help preserve the tooth. Alternatively, place it in a container of saliva. In some cases, a complete tooth can be re-attached.
- Chipped or broken tooth: the amount of tooth that has been damaged will determine the need for immediate dental care. Contact us to discuss the case, and we will advise on how to proceed.
- Sudden toothache or tooth pain: if the pain suddenly occurs in or around a tooth, there are several possible causes, and a visit to our office will likely be required to determine the problem.
Many other situations could present a dental emergency. We recommend contacting our Chicago dental office for guidance and advice. If you have a broken dental crown or damaged denture or bridge, please contact us immediately. Do not attempt to reattach a dental restoration to avoid further damage. We can repair or replace broken dental crowns, dentures, and bridges.
Preventing Emergency Dental Care
Although trauma, accidents, and dental problems can happen to anyone, there are a few steps you can take to minimize your overall risk. One of the most important factors in the stability of your oral health is routine preventive dental care. At regular office visits with our dental care team, we can spot developing problems before they lead to more complex issues.
Treating tooth decay and gum disease early can help you avoid sudden pain or damage that becomes an emergency. Maintaining a good daily oral hygiene routine is also an important factor in keeping your smile healthy between visits. Daily toothbrushing and flossing reduce the risk of common dental problems.
During your daily routine, you may notice changes in your teeth or gums that could indicate a growing problem. In this case, we recommend scheduling a dental care visit so that we can evaluate your concerns and provide appropriate treatment. In addition to providing emergency dental care, we provide general dentistry services to new and existing patients in Lincon, Park, Chicago, IL.