Dental Emergencies in Palatine, IL

What is a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation that poses an immediate threat to the health of your teeth and supporting tissues. Dental emergencies are often the result of an impact to the mouth, but they can also be caused by infection. To ensure the best possible outcome, any dental emergency should be evaluated by a professional immediately.

Here When You Need Us Most

Dental emergencies can’t wait. Whether it’s pain, swelling, or trauma, our team is ready to provide fast, expert care. Call us now to be seen promptly.

Call us: (847) 485-8767

What to do if a Tooth is Knocked Out

For permanent teeth that are knocked out, rinse the tooth and put it back in the socket. If you can’t get the tooth back in the socket, place it in a container of milk, water, or saliva to keep it moist.  Do not touch the roots (handle the tooth by the crown) and don’t brush the tooth. Contact us IMMEDIATELY for information and emergency treatment – the sooner you get to us, the more likely we can save your tooth!

For baby teeth that are unexpectedly knocked out, leave them out and contact us immediately for instructions.

Other Emergency Dental Situations

  • Substantial Toothache
  • Significant Sensitivity
  • Swollen or Sore Gums
  • Jaw Pain
  • Infection
  • Broken, Cracked, and Chipped Teeth
  • Broken Fillings
  • Lost Crown

Pain Management

If you can’t get into our office immediately, here is a list of effective home remedies to make you more comfortable while you wait for care:

  • Warm water rinses for sore teeth and gums.
  • Over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen (NOT aspirin).
  • Apply ice packs to the outside of the cheeks.
  • Dental anesthetics containing benzocaine may be used as directed on the package for pain.
  • Avoid overly hot and cold beverages and foods to reduce sensitivity.
  • Heating pads can be used to relieve jaw pain.
  • Avoid chewing in the injured area.
  • If a broken tooth has a sharp edge, cotton can be placed over it to protect soft tissues in your mouth.

Pain-Free Emergencies

Some dental emergencies may not cause pain initially. For example, a cracked tooth may not hurt, but it may lead to nerve damage in the roots. For this reason, all the listed conditions require immediate attention, regardless of whether pain is present.

We are here to help.  We urge you to call us at the first sign of a dental emergency!