There’s nothing like a vacation or business trip to shake up your routine. But what happens when a sudden dental emergency tries to ruin your plans? Our dentist in Homewood, IL, wants to help you stay calm and prepared – no matter where you are. So, we’ve made a quick guide to help you when accidents happen far from home.
If you need dental care now, contact Dr. Alex Shore at Signature Smile Arts. Our dentist in Homewood, IL, can help you treat dental damage quickly to get you smiling and back to your routine in no time. Dial (708) 799-5353 for speedy care now!
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
The American Dental Association says that there are nearly two million emergency room visits related to dental pain every year. While not all tooth problems need immediate care, some do. A dental emergency includes things like:
- A knocked-out or broken tooth
- Severe toothache or swelling
- Lost crown or filling
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- Infection or abscess
If it hurts a lot, looks scary, or affects your ability to eat or speak, it’s best to treat it like a dental emergency.
Don’t Panic – Take These First Steps
The first thing to do in a dental emergency is stay calm. Then, follow these basic steps:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Apply cold compresses for swelling or pain.
- Save any broken pieces or teeth.
- Use gauze to stop bleeding.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
These steps can buy you time while you figure out your next move.
Find a Local Dentist Fast
In a true dental emergency, you need help fast. Search online for an emergency dentist near your location. Look for reviews, hours, and contact info.
If you’re currently in Homewood, IL, contact Dr. Alex Shore at (708) 799-5353. He can help you in the event of a dental emergency.
When to Go to the ER
Not every dental emergency requires a trip to the emergency room. But go to the ER if you:
- Can’t stop bleeding
- Have facial swelling affecting your eyes or breathing
- Feel feverish or very ill
- Have a broken jaw
In these cases, hospital staff can stabilize you before a dentist steps in.
Tips for International Travel
A dental emergency abroad can feel scary, but don’t worry. If you have travel insurance, contact your provider – they can often direct you to approved dentists.
You can also contact your country’s embassy. They usually keep a list of trusted medical professionals, including dentists, in the area.
Preventing Problems Before You Leave
Want to avoid a dental emergency on your trip? A little planning goes a long way:
- Visit your dentist in Homewood, IL, before your trip for a checkup.
- Pack dental supplies like floss, pain relievers, and dental wax.
- Avoid super hard or sticky foods that can damage teeth.
- Stay hydrated, brush twice a day, and floss.
These simple habits can help keep your smile safe while you explore.
Back Home? Follow Up with Your Dentist
Even if you handled the dental emergency on the road, follow up with your dentist in Homewood, IL, as soon as you’re home. Dr. Shore will make sure everything healed correctly and nothing was missed.
Dental Emergency? Signatures Smile Arts in Homewood, IL, Can Help!
Tooth trouble doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Stay prepared, act quickly, and follow up with your dentist in Homewood, IL when you return. Need help now? Reach us online for an appointment, or call Dr. Shore at (708) 799-5353 for urgent care.
