Q: How do I know if my toothache is a dental emergency?
A: Severe or worsening tooth pain, pain accompanied by swelling or fever, or pain that does not respond to over-the-counter pain relievers should be treated as an emergency. These can indicate an abscess or infection that requires prompt treatment.
Q: Can a dental emergency wait until my next available appointment?
A: It depends on the situation. A minor chip with no pain can usually wait a few days. But swelling, severe pain, a loose tooth, or signs of infection should never wait — these can worsen quickly and become harder to treat. When in doubt, call us at 312-664-6616 and we’ll help you determine how urgently you need to be seen.
Q: What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
A: Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. Rinse it gently with water without scrubbing. Try to reinsert it into the socket or keep it moist in milk or saliva. Call Tilden Dental Group immediately — reimplantation is most successful within 30 to 60 minutes.
Q: What if I have a dental emergency after hours?
A: Call our office at 312-664-6616 and follow the instructions on our voicemail for after-hours emergencies. Dr. Reddy makes every effort to accommodate urgent care needs.
Q: Will a broken tooth always require a crown?
A: Not always. Minor chips may be repaired with bonding. More significant breaks may require a crown, root canal, or in some cases extraction. Dr. Reddy will evaluate the tooth and recommend the most conservative treatment option.