Dental Emergencies

Kalamazoo dental emergencies Experiencing a toothache? Don’t panic – there are steps you can take at home to find relief, and we’ll assist you as soon as possible. Call us at 269-344-7222 (Kalamazoo location) or 269-488-8400 (Portage location) if you are in pain or having any kind of dental emergency. If it’s after hours, our voicemail will direct you to someone who can help.

Finding Toothache Relief

Tooth pain can arise from many different causes – some serious, and some minor. No matter the cause of your pain, you should contact us right away to arrange an appointment. We will treat the pressing issue and also identify the cause of the problem to prevent it from growing. Some common causes of tooth pain include chronic teeth grinding (bruxism), decay, other injury, sinus pressure during a head cold, a damaged filling or restoration, or gum disease. If you’re experiencing tooth pain and waiting for your dental appointment, you can try the following home treatments to help find pain relief (although these will not solve the root of the problem) –
  • Saltwater rinse (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz of warm water, swish gently and do not swallow)
  • Gently floss around the tooth to remove any bits or food that may be stuck and irritating it
  • Over the counter painkillers or anesthetics containing benzocaine
  • Cold compress on your cheek

Broken, Fractured, or Displaced Tooth

If you are experiencing a more serious problem like a broken tooth, seek medical attention immediately. In the interim before your appointment, rinse your mouth of blood or debris and place an ice pack on your cheek to help control swelling. If your tooth has been knocked out, try to put it back into its socket. If you’re unable to do so, place the tooth in a container of warm milk or salt water and keep it there until you are in the ER or the dentist’s office. Most importantly, seek professional help as soon as possible. Acting quickly will help save your tooth.

What to Do During Dental Emergencies

The most important step to take is to seek help right away. If your dentist isn’t available or it is after hours and you have injured a tooth or lost a permanent tooth, visit the emergency room. Bring along a cold compress to help with swelling and discomfort while waiting to see a doctor. We are here to help if you are experiencing any kind of dental emergency. Reach out today for assistance and we will help you get back to a comfortable, healthy place.