Understanding Emergency Dental Services: When to Seek Help

Dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly, causing pain, discomfort, and stress. Knowing when to seek professional care and understanding what constitutes a dental emergency can make all the difference in protecting your oral health.

At Art of Modern Dentistry, we offer comprehensive emergency dental services in Chicago. Our skilled team is ready to provide immediate care for a variety of dental issues. We want to ensure you get the relief you need when you need it most.

What Is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency is any problem with your teeth, gums, or jaw that needs quick care. This helps relieve severe pain, stop more damage, or treat an infection. These emergencies often cannot wait for a routine appointment and need urgent care.

Signs of a dental emergency include:

• Severe tooth pain that doesn’t subside
• Swelling in the face, gums, or jaw
• Bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure
• A knocked-out, loose, or fractured tooth
• Signs of infection, such as fever, bad taste, or pus

If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency, it’s always best to call your dentist for guidance.

Common Dental Emergencies

Several dental problems can arise that require prompt care. Here are the most common dental emergencies we handle:

• Severe Toothache: Persistent pain can indicate deep decay, an abscess, or nerve damage. Immediate treatment is essential to relieve pain and address the underlying issue.

• Chipped or Broken Tooth: If a tooth is cracked or broken, it can expose nerves and lead to infection. Save any broken pieces and bring them to your appointment.

• Knocked-Out Tooth: Quick action is crucial to save a tooth. Place the tooth in milk or a tooth preservation kit and visit your dentist immediately. Reimplantation is often possible if done quickly.

• Lost Filling or Crown: A lost filling or crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to damage or infection. Temporary dental cement can help protect the tooth until you see your dentist.

• Abscess: This is a serious infection that often presents as a painful swelling near the tooth root or gums. Left untreated, a dental abscess can spread to other parts of the body.

• Soft Tissue Injuries: Cuts or injuries to the tongue, cheeks, or gums may require stitches or treatment to stop bleeding.

What to Do During a Dental Emergency

Taking the right steps before reaching the dentist can improve outcomes and minimize damage:

• For tooth pain, rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove debris. Avoid using aspirin directly on the tooth or gums.
• For a knocked-out tooth, handle it by the crown, not the root, to avoid damage.
• For a cracked tooth, rinse with warm water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
• For bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

While not all emergencies are avoidable, some steps can reduce your risk:

• Practice good oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
• Wear a mouthguard during sports or physical activities.
• Avoid chewing hard objects like ice or pens and pencils.
• Address minor dental issues promptly to prevent them from becoming emergencies.

When to Call for Dental Emergency Care

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, don’t wait. Call Art of Modern Dentistry immediately. Our team will assess your situation, provide guidance, and schedule a prompt appointment to address your needs.

Get Relief Today!

Dental emergencies can be stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Art of Modern Dentistry, we’re here to help you regain comfort and protect your smile.

Call our Lincoln Park office at 773-935-3600 or our South Loop office at 312-922-1898 for immediate assistance. Let us provide the expert care you deserve when you need it most.