Dental pain almost always feels worse at night. This guide walks through the most common dental emergencies, what to do in the first hour, and when to head to the ER instead of the dentist. It is meant to help you act quickly, not to replace a phone call to your office.
If you are bleeding heavily, have swelling that affects breathing or swallowing, or have suffered a head injury, go to the nearest ER. For everything else, call us at Lincoln Park or Schaumburg.
Severe, throbbing tooth pain
Often a sign of decay reaching the nerve or an infected tooth. Treatment may be a root canal, an extraction, or antibiotics first if there is significant swelling.
While you wait:
- Rinse gently with warm salt water
- Take ibuprofen and acetaminophen together as directed if you can take them
- Avoid heat on the cheek; cool compresses are better
- Call the office; same-day visits are common for this
Knocked-out adult tooth
Time matters. Best outcomes happen within an hour.
- Find the tooth. Pick it up by the crown, not the root.
- Gently rinse with water if dirty (do not scrub).
- Try to put it back into the socket if possible.
- If not, store it in milk or saliva. Plain water is a last resort.
- Call the office and head in immediately.
A baby tooth that is knocked out usually is not replanted; bring your child in so the area can be evaluated.
Broken or chipped tooth
Small chips are often fixed same-day with bonding. Larger breaks may need a crown; the deepest breaks may need a root canal or extraction. Save any pieces you can find.
If it is sharp and cutting your tongue, use sugar-free gum or wax over it as a temporary buffer.
Crown or filling fell out
Usually urgent but rarely a true emergency.
- Keep the crown if you find it.
- Avoid sticky foods on that side.
- Over-the-counter temporary cement from a pharmacy can help for a night or two.
- Call to be seen within a few days.
Swelling on the gum or face (abscess)
A localized bump on the gum or noticeable facial swelling suggests infection. This needs prompt care, especially if it is spreading or affecting your ability to swallow or breathe.
Call right away. If symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, the ER can stabilize you and refer you back to us for definitive treatment.
Soft tissue injuries
Bitten lip, tongue, or cheek that will not stop bleeding: apply gentle pressure with clean gauze for 15 minutes. If bleeding continues or the cut is deep, head to the ER for stitches.
What "after hours" looks like
Leave a voicemail at the office closest to you with your name, callback number, and a brief description of the issue. We follow up first thing in the morning and prioritize same-day visits for emergencies.
For true emergencies overnight, the ER can offer pain control and antibiotics, even though dental work itself happens at the dental office.
Frequently asked questions
Does insurance cover emergency visits?
Most dental plans cover emergency exams, X-rays, and palliative treatment. We verify benefits before treatment. See our insurance page for details.
Will I be charged for after-hours calls?
No charge for calling. Visits are billed like any other. We share specifics when you call.
Should I take antibiotics on my own?
Only if you have current ones prescribed for that situation. Antibiotic resistance is a real problem; we prescribe only when clinically indicated.
How do I prevent emergencies?
Regular checkups catch problems before they become 2 a.m. pain. Wear a night guard if you grind. Wear a sports mouthguard for contact sports.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or dental care. When in doubt, call the office or the ER.