A dental emergency is a situation that demands immediate attention from a qualified dental professional. At Oak Dental Associates, we know dental issues can happen at any time — often when you least expect them. Whether you are dealing with sudden pain, trauma to your teeth or gums, or a lost restoration, our dentists and team are here to help you receive prompt and compassionate emergency dental care in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Your health, comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we work quickly to address your needs and relieve your discomfort.
Types of Dental Emergencies We Treat
Dental emergencies in Oak Lawn, IL, can vary widely in severity and cause. Some of the most common situations we treat include:
- Severe toothaches
- Broken or cracked teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Lost dental filling or crown
- An abscess or infection
- Trauma to the soft tissues of the mouth such as the tongue, gums, cheeks or lips
Tooth pain is one of the most frequent reasons patients seek urgent dental care. A persistent or intense toothache may signal an infection or decay that requires immediate treatment. Likewise, trauma from sports injuries or accidents can result in chipped, broken or dislodged teeth. These injuries should be evaluated as quickly as possible by our emergency dentists in Oak Lawn, IL, to increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
What to Do During a Dental Emergency
If you or a loved one experiences a dental emergency in Oak Lawn, IL, contact our office at 708-422-1900 as soon as possible. Our team will schedule you to see our dentists quickly and guide you on what to do in the meantime. For example:
- If you lose a tooth, try to keep it moist in milk or saline solution and bring it with you.
- If you have a broken tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
It is important to note that if you suffer trauma to your head or neck, you should seek medical care from a hospital or physician before visiting our dentists, even if your teeth are affected. Prioritizing your overall health ensures that you receive the care you need in the proper order.
Emergency Dentistry You Can Rely On
You should never ignore dental pain or injury. Prompt treatment can make a critical difference in your outcome and prevent more extensive procedures later. Our team is trained to handle urgent dental situations with precision and empathy. We welcome you to call us at 708-422-1900 right away if you believe you are having a dental emergency in Oak Lawn, IL. Our team will provide you with instructions and schedule an emergency appointment with Dr. Chris Pallotto or Dr. Duyen Tran. Let us help you protect your smile and regain your comfort with expert, timely care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dentistry
What are some early signs that I may need emergency dental care?
Early signs can include swelling in the face or gums, unusual sensitivity to hot or cold, visible damage to a tooth or bleeding that will not stop. Pain that worsens with time or spreads to the jaw or ear may also indicate an urgent dental issue.
Can I go to the emergency room for a dental problem?
Emergency rooms can help manage pain or infection, especially if you cannot reach a dentist right away. However, most ERs are not equipped to treat dental conditions directly. It is best to follow up with a dental professional to fully resolve the underlying cause of the problem.
How can I prepare for a potential dental emergency?
Keep a small dental emergency kit at home with items like gauze, a small container for a tooth, over-the-counter pain relievers and Oak Dental Associates’s contact information. Knowing what to do ahead of time helps you respond quickly and calmly when an unexpected dental issue arises.
What should I avoid doing during a dental emergency?
Avoid using sharp tools to remove food or debris, chewing on the affected side or placing aspirin directly on the gums. These actions can worsen the condition or cause additional irritation. Instead, contact our dentists for guidance and use safe, gentle methods to manage discomfort temporarily.
What areas do you serve?
Our dentists and team provide emergency dentistry in Oak Lawn, Illinois, and the surrounding areas, including Alsip, Beverly, Bridgeview, Burbank, Burr Ridge, Chicago Ridge, Mount Greenwood, Evergreen Park, Hickory Hills, Hinsdale, Hometown, Lemont, Orland Park, Palos Heights, Palos Hills, Palos Park and Worth, Illinois. Contact us now for your emergency appointment!