Our teeth don’t always behave as expected. Even with excellent oral hygiene, accidents can occur; teeth can be knocked out, crowns can come loose, or unexpected pain can arise. No matter the size of the issue, we are here to assist you.
When to Contact Us
If you’re uncertain about what’s causing your discomfort, it’s wise to reach out to us. We can help determine if a consultation is necessary and what treatment may be needed. Contact us if:
- You have unexplained bleeding in your mouth
- You are experiencing severe pain
- You notice a loose tooth
- You’ve sustained a hit to the face or mouth
- You have pain accompanied by swelling
- You see swelling or bumps in your gums
Common Dental Issues and Solutions
Toothache
Many causes of toothache can be treated with straightforward procedures that alleviate pain and promote healing. Don’t delay seeking help, as waiting can lead to more serious problems.
- Clean the affected tooth as thoroughly as possible. Rinse your mouth and floss to remove any debris, which may relieve pain.
- If there’s swelling, apply a warm washcloth to the outside of your cheek.
- If the pain persists, see us within two days.
- If you have swelling or a fever, seek immediate attention. Call us right away.
Tooth Loss
While it’s common for children to lose baby teeth, losing an adult tooth due to an accident requires immediate attention. Contact us promptly to see if we can salvage or restore the tooth.
- Handle the tooth by the crown (the visible part), not the root.
- Rinse it gently with warm water without scrubbing.
- If possible, place the tooth back in its socket. If not, keep it in milk until you can bring it to us.
Lost Crown
Losing a crown can be painful, as it exposes sensitive tooth tissue to air and temperature changes. Contact us immediately if this happens.
- Rinse the crown thoroughly.
- If possible, reattach the crown to your tooth using dental cement or denture adhesive inside the crown.
- Bring the crown with you when you visit our office.
Remember, ignoring dental pain or discomfort can lead to further damage and require more extensive treatment. If you have concerns about your oral health, call us at 312.943.6444 for advice on the next steps. In case of a dental emergency, contact us immediately, and we’ll do our best to assist you promptly. Our priority is restoring your healthy smile.
Sincerely,
Ramy Bahu, DDS