Learn What to Do in a Dental Emergency From Our Crystal Lake Dentists
A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it—whether it's a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a broken restoration. Knowing how to handle these situations can make all the difference in preserving your oral health. At Windsor Dental, our Crystal Lake dentists are here to guide you through the steps you should take when faced with a dental emergency.
Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do
1. Severe Tooth Pain or Abscess
If you experience intense tooth pain, swelling, or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, you may have an infection or abscess. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help reduce inflammation and use a cold compress to ease discomfort. Contact our Crystal Lake dentists immediately, as infections can worsen quickly and require prompt treatment.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
If a permanent tooth gets knocked out, act fast! Carefully pick up the tooth by the crown (avoid touching the root), rinse it gently with water if dirty, and try to place it back into its socket. If this isn’t possible, keep the tooth in a container of milk or saliva and get to our office as soon as possible. The sooner you receive care, the better the chance of saving the tooth.
3. Broken, Chipped, or Cracked Tooth
A broken or cracked tooth can cause pain and increase the risk of infection. Rinse your mouth with warm water, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek, and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Call Windsor Dental right away so our team can assess the damage and provide the necessary treatment.
4. Lost Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown falls out, try to keep the restoration and avoid eating on the affected side. You can use dental cement (available at most pharmacies) as a temporary fix until you visit our office. Our Crystal Lake dentists can quickly restore your tooth with a replacement filling or a new crown. If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or trauma to your teeth or gums, don’t wait! Contact Windsor Dental for urgent dental care. Our experienced team is here to provide fast, effective treatment to restore your oral health and relieve discomfort.
