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Lost a Crown or Filling? Temporary Fixes and When to Call the Dentist
Knowing when to call the dentist can mean the difference between saving a tooth and facing serious oral health complications. Dental emergencies often require prompt attention, but even routine concerns may need professional evaluation. At Bender Dental Care, we provide expert dental services for urgent and non-urgent needs. If you’re unsure whether your situation requires immediate care, don’t hesitate—call the dentist at (847) 888-4333 or visit benderdentalcare.com for guidance.
Common Dental Emergencies That Require You to Call the Dentist
Some dental issues can’t wait for a regular appointment. Here are the most critical situations where you should call the dentist right away.
1. Severe Toothache
- Throbbing pain that doesn’t subside
- Swelling in the gums or face
- Possible signs of infection (fever, bad taste)
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
- Requires immediate reimplantation (within 30-60 minutes)
- Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root
- Store in milk or saline until treatment
3. Cracked or Broken Tooth
- Sharp pain when chewing
- Visible cracks or missing tooth fragments
- Risk of infection if left untreated
4. Lost Filling or Crown
- Exposed tooth may become sensitive
- Temporary fixes (dental cement) can help short-term
- Needs professional repair to prevent further damage
5. Abscess or Gum Infection
- Painful, pus-filled swelling
- Fever and bad breath
- Can spread infection if untreated
Non-Emergency Situations: When to Schedule an Appointment
Not every dental concern is urgent, but some still require professional attention.
1. Mild Tooth Sensitivity
- Could indicate enamel erosion or cavities
- May require fluoride treatment or fillings
2. Bleeding Gums
- Often a sign of gingivitis or gum disease
- Needs professional cleaning and evaluation
3. Loose Adult Tooth
- Could indicate gum disease or injury
- Should be examined to prevent tooth loss
4. Jaw Pain or Clicking
- Possible TMJ disorder or teeth grinding
- May need a nightguard or physical therapy
What to Do Before You Call the Dentist
Being prepared can help your dentist provide the best care.
1. Assess Your Symptoms
- Rate pain on a scale of 1-10
- Note swelling, bleeding, or fever
2. Take Temporary Measures
- Rinse with warm salt water for infections
- Use a cold compress for swelling
- Avoid aspirin on gums (can increase bleeding)
3. Gather Relevant Information
- When symptoms started
- Any recent dental work or injuries
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Calling the Dentist
Ignoring dental problems can lead to:
- Worsening pain and infection
- More expensive treatments later
- Permanent tooth loss
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
- Brush and floss daily
- Wear a mouthguard for sports
- Avoid chewing ice or hard candy
- Schedule regular check-ups
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing dental pain or damage, don’t wait—call the dentist as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent complications and save your smile. For expert dental care, contact Bender Dental Care at (847) 888-4333 or visit benderdentalcare.com. Your oral health is our priority!
FAQ’s About Dental Implants
How painful is the dental implant procedure?
Most patients report minimal discomfort, similar to a tooth extraction. We use local anesthesia and offer sedation options for maximum comfort.
How long does the entire process take?
From implant placement to final restoration typically takes 3-6 months, depending on your healing process.
What's the success rate of dental implants?
With proper placement and care, dental implants have a success rate of over 95% at our practice.
Can implants be done in one day?
In some cases, we can place temporary teeth the same day as your implants, but the final restoration comes after healing.
Are there age restrictions for implants?
There’s no upper age limit – we’ve successfully treated patients in their 80s and 90s with excellent results.
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