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Why People Love Elite Dentistry
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Same-Day Emergency Dental Care in Arcola
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Immediate Relief from Pain
Expert Care When It Matters Most
Peace of Mind and Support
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Meet Our Arcola Dentists
Comprehensive Services
Patient-first Care
Common Dental Emergencies & Injuries
Severe Pain, Swelling, & Infection
Sudden pain and swelling in your mouth or face can indicate an underlying issue that requires prompt attention. These symptoms may stem from:
- Severe toothache
- Swollen jaw or face
- Abscess or infection
- Extreme temperature sensitivity
Traumatic Dental Injuries
Accidents, falls, or sports-related incidents can lead to significant dental damage. If you experience a traumatic injury, act quickly to improve the chances of saving your tooth. Common injuries include:
- Knocked-out tooth
- Cracked or broken tooth
- Displaced or loose tooth
- Cuts or bites to lips, tongue, or cheeks
Urgent Dental Problems
Some dental issues may not be traumatic but still require immediate care to avoid worsening conditions. These include:
- Lost filling or crown
- Broken dentures
- Bleeding gums
- Food lodged between teeth
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
First Steps
- Call our office immediately – Describe your symptoms so we can guide you.
- Follow first-aid instructions – Temporary relief measures can prevent complications.
- Seek emergency care if needed – Some injuries may require a hospital visit.
Knocked-Out Tooth
Time is critical. The faster you act, the higher the chances of saving your tooth.
- Handle the tooth by the crown – Avoid touching the root.
- Rinse gently if dirty – Use water, but do not scrub or remove tissue fragments.
- Try to reinsert the tooth into the socket – If possible, gently place it back in place.
- Keep it moist if reinsertion isn’t possible – Store it in milk or between your cheek and gums.
- Visit our office within 30 minutes – The sooner you get care, the better the outcome.
Severe Pain or Swelling
If you’re in pain or experiencing swelling, take these immediate steps:
- Rinse with warm saltwater – Helps reduce bacteria and soothe irritation.
- Apply a cold compress – Reduces swelling and numbs discomfort.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication – Avoid aspirin if there’s bleeding.
- Call our office right away – Persistent pain often signals an underlying problem.
Emergency Care for Children
Children’s dental emergencies require extra attention and a gentle approach. Whether it’s a knocked-out baby tooth, a chipped tooth, or a toothache, we prioritize their comfort and care.
- Kid-friendly environment – We ensure a calm and welcoming space.
- Gentle reassurance – Our team helps children feel safe and at ease.
- Age-appropriate explanations – We make treatment understandable for young patients.
- Parental guidance – We keep you informed and involved in your child’s care.
- Quick pain relief – Immediate attention to minimize discomfort and anxiety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies as a dental emergency?
Severe pain, swelling, bleeding, knocked-out teeth, or any dental problem causing significant discomfort requires immediate attention.
How quickly can I be seen?
We reserve time each day for emergencies and typically see emergency patients the same day they call.
Will emergency treatment hurt?
Your comfort is our priority. We use appropriate anesthesia and gentle techniques to ensure you're comfortable during emergency treatment.
What if I have an emergency after hours?
Call our office for guidance. Our answering service will help you reach the doctor on call for urgent situations.
How much does emergency dental care cost?
Cost varies based on treatment needed. We accept most insurance plans and offer financing options for unexpected dental expenses.
Should I go to the ER or dentist?
For purely dental issues, our office is best equipped to help. For facial trauma, severe bleeding, or difficulty breathing, visit the ER.
What if my child has a dental emergency?
We provide gentle, kid-friendly emergency care. Call immediately, and we'll guide you through appropriate first aid steps.
Can I prevent dental emergencies?
Regular checkups, protective mouthguards during sports, and avoiding harmful habits can help prevent many emergencies.
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
Keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva and get to our office within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving it.
Do you take emergency new patients?
Yes, we welcome emergency patients even if you've never visited our practice before.