Emergency Dentist in Portage Park, Chicago

When to Call an Emergency Dentist

Not every issue requires urgent care, but some conditions need immediate attention to prevent further damage, infection, or unnecessary pain. If you’re unsure whether you need emergency dental care, it’s always best to call — we’ll talk you through your symptoms and let you know the right next step.

Common dental emergencies we treat include:

• Knocked-out (avulsed) teeth
• Cracked or fractured teeth
• Severe toothaches or sensitivity
• Lost or damaged fillings or crowns
• Abscesses or swelling in the gums or jaw
• Bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Dental trauma from falls, accidents, or sports injuries
• Infections that cause fever or pain when biting

If you’re in pain or something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. We’ll do our best to get you into the office as soon as possible — often on the same day.

What to Expect During an Emergency Dental Visit

When you arrive for emergency dental care, we begin with a focused examination of the problem area. Our first priority is always to relieve your discomfort and prevent the situation from getting worse.

Your visit may include:

1. Digital X-rays to assess hidden damage or infection
2. Gentle examination of the affected tooth, gums, and surrounding tissue
3. Immediate pain relief, including local anesthesia if needed
4. Temporary or permanent treatment, depending on the severity of the issue
5. Clear follow-up instructions or referral if advanced care is required

We make every effort to provide treatment on the same day. If a follow-up is needed — such as a dental crown, root canal, or tooth extraction — we’ll schedule it promptly and explain everything in clear terms.

Tips for Common Dental Emergencies

While waiting to be seen, here’s how to manage a few urgent dental problems:

• Knocked-Out Tooth: Keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva and bring it to your appointment. Time is critical for possible reattachment.
  
• Toothache: Rinse with warm salt water and take over-the-counter pain medication if needed. Avoid applying aspirin directly to the gums.
  
• Broken Tooth: Save any pieces and rinse your mouth gently. Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
  
• Lost Filling or Crown: Keep the area clean. If possible, save the crown or filling and bring it with you. Temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies) may help until your visit.

For any questions or concerns before your appointment, give us a call. We’ll guide you through what to do next.

Preventing Dental Emergencies

While not all dental emergencies can be avoided, many can be minimized through good habits and routine care. We recommend:

• Visiting us every six months for dental cleanings and exams
• Wearing custom mouthguards during sports or at night if you grind your teeth
• Avoiding hard foods or chewing on ice and non-food items
• Addressing small dental issues early before they worsen
• Maintaining excellent brushing and flossing habits at home

Regular visits help us detect problems early and reduce the risk of painful emergencies in the future.