Emergencies

What to do when there is a emergency before you reach out to your the dentist

Dental emergencies can happen without warning—and knowing what to do in those first critical moments can make a big difference. Whether you’re dealing with a severe toothache, a broken tooth, or an injury to the mouth or jaw, taking quick, proper action can reduce pain, prevent further damage, and improve treatment outcomes. Below, we’ve outlined essential first-aid steps for the most common dental emergencies. If you’re ever unsure or the pain persists, don’t wait—contact our office or seek immediate medical attention.

Begin by meticulously cleaning around the sore tooth. Using warm salt water, rinse the mouth to displace any food trapped between teeth. Do not use aspirin on the aching tooth or on the gum. If you have facial swelling, apply a cold compress to the area. For temporary pain relief, acetaminophen is recommended. If the pain persists more than a day, please contact us.

Ice can be applied to any bruised areas. For bleeding, apply firm (but gentle) pressure with sterile gauze or a clean cloth. If the bleeding does not stop with pressure, or continues longer than 15 minutes, please go to the nearest emergency room.

Recover any of the broken tooth fragments. Rinse the area with warm water, and apply a cold compress over the facial area of the injury. Please seek immediate dental attention.

Recover the tooth, making sure to hold it by the crown (top) and not the root. Rinse, but do not clean or handle the tooth more than necessary. Reinsert the tooth into the socket, and hold it in place using a clean piece of gauze or cloth. If the tooth cannot be reinserted, carry it in a cup of milk or water. Time is essential, so see a dentist immediately.

In the event of a jaw injury, tie the mouth closed with a towel, tie or handkerchief. Go immediately to the nearest emergency room.

Fold a piece of gauze, and place it (tightly) over the bleeding area. Bite down on the gauze for 15 minutes. If the bleeding continues, please see a dentist.

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We are conveniently located in Chicago’s Loop next to Macy’s, at the southwest corner of Washington & Wabash.

Chicago Dental 312
25 E Washington St # 1211, Chicago, IL 60602

(312) 263-5090

info@chicagodental312.com

Monday: 7:30am – 4:00pm
Tuesday: 7:00am – 4:00pm
Wednesday: 7:00am – 5:30pm
Thursday: 7:00am – 4:00pm
Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm
Saturday: 7:00am – 12:00pm (bi-monthly)
Sunday: Closed