At Lake Forest Smiles, we recognize that dental emergencies can strike at any time, causing stress and discomfort. Trust us to be your partners in oral health, offering not only preventive strategies but also support during unforeseen dental emergencies.
You and your family’s comfort and well-being are our top priorities, and our team is here to offer you peace of mind and exceptional care when you need it.
Dental emergencies can be confusing and stressful. To help you navigate these urgent situations, we are here to help! Give us a call if you are experiencing a dental emergency or have a question!
Am I Having a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies can be distressing, but knowing how to respond and seeking prompt care is crucial.
In the case of a broken jaw or life-threatening dental emergencies, such as uncontrolled bleeding, soft-tissue infections with swelling compromising the airway, or facial bone trauma endangering the airway, seek immediate attention at an emergency room.
For less urgent but still serious issues like severe tooth pain, wisdom tooth pain, or post-extraction complications, it’s essential to get urgent care to prevent further problems. The following are examples of when to seek emergency dental care:
Chipped Tooth:
If you’ve chipped a tooth, our cosmetic dentists have effective solutions to restore your smile to its full glory.
Tooth Avulsion:
In the unfortunate event of a permanent tooth being knocked out, act quickly. Place the tooth in a cup of milk or your saliva and contact our emergency dental office immediately.
Partial Tooth Avulsion:
When a tooth becomes loose but is not fully knocked out, schedule an appointment at Lake Forest Smiles for a comprehensive dental exam to prevent additional damage.
Bleeding:
While some bleeding after a dental injury is normal, significant and uncontrollable bleeding requires immediate attention.
Failed or Damaged Dental Restoration:
A crown, dental bonding, or filling becoming loose or falling out is not always an emergency, but it can expose the sensitive inner layer of your tooth to infectious bacteria or physical damage. Call our office to figure out how quickly you’ll need care.
Abscessed Tooth:
An abscess (a pus pocket caused by infection) can be extremely painful and pose a risk to your overall health and may lead to severe complications.
Call our office if you’re experiencing anything considered a dental emergency so we can give you advice on the next steps to take before you come into our office.
Our Emergency Dental Services
At Lake Forest Smiles, we offer comprehensive emergency dental services to address a wide range of urgent dental issues:
- Gum Care and Management: If you’re dealing with bleeding gums or other gum-related issues, we provide thorough examinations and treatments to address the underlying causes and manage your symptoms effectively.
- Pain Relief: Our first priority is to alleviate your pain and discomfort. We provide effective treatments to address toothaches, infections, and other sources of dental pain, helping you find relief as quickly as possible.
- Trauma and Injury Care: If you’ve experienced a dental injury, such as a knocked-out tooth or a broken tooth, our skilled team will work swiftly to assess and treat the damage. We use advanced techniques to maximize the chances of saving and restoring your tooth.
- Restorative Services: We offer temporary and permanent solutions for lost crowns or fillings to protect your teeth and restore their function. Our restorative treatments are designed to be both effective and durable, ensuring long-term oral health.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
Knowing how to handle a dental emergency before you reach our office can make a significant difference. Here are some general guidelines:
- Bleeding Gums: Rinse with salt water and apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze.
- Severe Toothache: Rinse with warm salt water, use over-the-counter pain relief, and avoid extreme temperatures.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Handle the tooth carefully, rinse gently, and keep it in milk or a saline solution. Seek care immediately.
- Chipped or Broken Tooth: Rinse your mouth, apply a cold compress, and save any fragments. Avoid hard or sticky foods.
- Lost Crown or Filling: Use temporary dental cement if available and avoid sticky foods.
Why Choose Us for Your Dental Emergencies
When a dental emergency arises, you need a trusted partner who can provide swift, effective, and compassionate care. At Lake Forest Smiles, we are dedicated to offering superior emergency dental services that prioritize your health and comfort. Here’s why you should choose us for your urgent dental needs:
Expert Care
Our team of skilled dentists and dental professionals is extensively trained in managing a wide range of dental emergencies. With years of experience and advanced expertise, we handle each case with precision, ensuring you receive the highest quality of care.
Prompt and Efficient Service
We understand that dental emergencies can be distressing and require immediate attention. We strive to provide prompt service to alleviate pain and address dental concerns as quickly as possible.
Preventative Guidance and Follow-Up Care
Beyond addressing your immediate emergency, we provide valuable guidance on preventing future issues and maintaining optimal oral health. Our follow-up care ensures that your dental health is monitored and managed effectively after your emergency has been treated.
Compassionate and Personalized Approach
We recognize that dental emergencies can be stressful and overwhelming. Our team is committed to providing compassionate care and personalized attention to ensure you feel supported throughout your visit. We take the time to listen to your concerns and explain your treatment options clearly.
Comprehensive Emergency Care
Whether you’re dealing with a severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, a broken crown, or any other urgent dental issue, we offer comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs.
Practice Preventive Care for Lifelong Dental Health
While kids and dental emergencies can be unpredictable, adopting good oral hygiene practices and scheduling regular checkups at our Lake Forest general dentistry office significantly reduces the risk of unexpected dental inconveniences.
For those who are active in sports, we recommend considering a custom sports guard to safeguard against potential tooth damage or loss. We provide tailored solutions to minimize risks associated with various activities.
Treating Specific Dental Emergencies
Losing a Filling
If your filling has fallen out, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as you can. Cavities left untreated can develop into more serious problems.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
If your tooth is broken, chipped, or fractured, see a dentist as soon as possible. The pulp inside of the tooth can be exposed to outside elements which can cause it to be damaged further, get infected, or lead to the loss of the tooth.
An easy way to protect a tooth while you wait to visit the dentist is to place a piece of sugar-free gum over the damaged tooth.
Knocked Out Tooth
Yes, we can help preserve your tooth. When you come to the office, bring the broken or lost tooth with you. We will take immediate steps to save the tooth and repair the injury.
It is important that you see an emergency dental care office as soon as this happens. The preservation of the tooth depends on the timeliness.
Food Lodged in Your Teeth
If you have a piece of food, bone, or a toothpick caught between your teeth you can try to remove it gently using dental floss. Avoid using anything sharp as it can cause more damage.
Contact our office if the dental floss doesn’t work and you’re experiencing severe discomfort.
Jaw Fracture
Seek immediate medical attention. Injuries to the jaw, neck, or head often require prompt medical care. These injuries can be severe and life-threatening. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of reversing the damage and restoring your health.
Pain and Swelling
Not every dental emergency is similar. Dental emergencies are mysterious and can occur when least expected. For example, you may develop a toothache at any time of the day or night.
If you are experiencing a toothache, call our office for an appointment.
In the meantime, you can try rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to clean and reduce swelling. Patients can also use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek and try over-the-counter pain medications.
Bleeding Gums
To manage bleeding gums, patients should rinse their mouth with warm salt water to clean the area. Gently apply pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to stop the bleeding. Avoid tobacco and maintain good oral care to prevent further irritation.
If bleeding persists, call our office to talk with a dental professional.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dental Care
Will my dental insurance cover emergency care?
Many dental insurance plans cover emergency care, but coverage details can vary. Contact your insurance provider to understand your benefits and coverage for emergency dental services. Our office can also help you navigate insurance questions and discuss payment options.
When should I go to the emergency room for tooth pain?
Broken bones, uncontrolled bleeding, excessive swelling, and trouble breathing are all things you should seek emergency care for at a hospital.
However, emergency rooms and hospitals do not treat tooth issues. If you need emergency dental care, give us a call to talk with our dental professionals.
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
A dental emergency typically involves severe pain, trauma, or sudden issues that require immediate attention to prevent further damage. Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe toothaches or dental pain
- Knocked-out or dislodged teeth
- Chipped or broken teeth
- Lost crowns or fillings
- Bleeding gums or oral injuries
- Swelling in the mouth or face
How can I prevent dental emergencies?
To reduce the risk of dental emergencies:
- Avoid chewing on hard objects or foods that can damage your teeth
- Wear a mouthguard during sports or high-impact activities
- Practice good oral hygiene by regularly brushing and flossing
- Visit us for routine check-ups and cleanings to catch issues early
We Have Your Dental Emergencies Covered
Lake Forest Smiles is equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies, providing the care and attention you need when it matters most. If you experience severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or trauma, don’t delay—seek proper consultation at our Lake Forest, IL, office to ensure your well-being.