What Counts as a Dental Emergency? Your Quick Guide from Dental Heights

In the middle of the night or during a busy family weekend, a sudden dental problem can cause panic. As the Family Health Guardian, knowing when a dental issue is truly an emergency and who to call can save you stress, pain, and potentially, a tooth.

At Dental Heights, we offer dedicated Emergency Services and pride ourselves on providing exceptional service, responsiveness, and care from the first call. We’re here when you need us most.

Here is your quick guide to identifying a true dental emergency and what to do next:

When to Call Us IMMEDIATELY (True Emergencies):

These situations require immediate professional care to save a tooth, stop bleeding, or prevent a worsening infection:

1. A Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsed Tooth): This is the most urgent emergency.

Action: Find the tooth. Gently rinse it (do not scrub). Try to put it back in the socket. If that fails, place it in a cup of milk or saliva. Call us immediately—time is critical for saving the tooth.

1. Severe, Uncontrolled Pain or Swelling: A sudden, throbbing toothache, especially when accompanied by facial swelling, can indicate an infection (abscess) that needs prompt attention to prevent it from spreading.
2. Trauma (Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Tooth): If a tooth fracture is severe, exposes the pulp, or causes significant pain, it is an emergency.

Action: Rinse your mouth with warm water. Apply a cold compress to your face to reduce swelling. Gather any broken pieces.

1. A Lost Filling or Crown Causing Pain: If you lose a filling or crown and the exposed area is highly sensitive, we need to see you quickly to prevent further decay or damage.
2. Uncontrolled Bleeding: If you have had an extraction or injury and the bleeding won’t stop after 15-20 minutes of steady pressure, call us.

When You Should Schedule a Quick Appointment (Urgent, but Non-Emergency):

These issues are urgent and require prompt attention, but not necessarily a trip in the middle of the night:

• A dull, minor toothache that comes and goes.
• Food lodged firmly between your teeth (try flossing first).
• A loose or lost filling/crown that is not causing pain.
• A broken or bent orthodontic wire that isn’t poking or causing injury.

Why Choose Dental Heights for Your Emergency?

As a family-owned practice with Over 30 Years of Experience, we understand that dental emergencies are stressful. Our goal is to quickly relieve your pain and address the underlying issue, providing comprehensive treatment from Dental Extractions to Crowns, Bridges & Dentures if necessary. We are your reliable source for quick, compassionate care right here in Glendale Heights.

If you suspect a dental emergency, don’t wait. Call us immediately! Call (224) 698-1472 or visit https://www.dentalheights.com/.