Respond Quickly When a Dental Emergency Strikes During the Holidays

The season of parties and travel is wonderful—until a cracked molar or throbbing toothache crashes the fun. Knowing how to respond quickly to a dental emergency during the holidays empowers you to protect your smile and keep plans on track. 

If something feels off, act now rather than waiting. Fast action can save a tooth, reduce pain, and prevent infections that derail the week. For urgent guidance or care, contact Aberdeen Smiles right away.

Spot the Red Flags Immediately

Some problems cannot wait for regular office hours. Sudden, severe pain, a tooth that is knocked out or loosened, swelling in the face or jaw, trauma with uncontrolled bleeding, or a broken crown that exposes sharp edges all call for urgent attention. 

Even a small chip can worsen under holiday snacking. When you are unsure, treat it as urgent and call Aberdeen Smiles for next steps.

Take Smart First Aid Steps

Stay calm and protect the area. If a permanent tooth is avulsed, hold the crown only, give it a quick, gentle rinse with water, and try to reinsert it into the socket. If that is not possible, keep it moist in milk or your own saliva—never plain water. 

For swelling, use a cold compress outside the cheek in short intervals. Manage discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers as directed, but do not place aspirin on the gums. If a filling falls out, cover sharp edges with orthodontic wax, sugar-free gum, or temporary dental cement from a pharmacy.

Trust Prompt, Comfortable Care

Aberdeen Smiles prioritizes same-day visits whenever possible. After a careful exam and digital imaging, we will stabilize the problem and relieve pain. 

Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include smoothing a chip, replacing a filling, placing a protective temporary crown, performing root canal therapy to save an infected tooth, or extracting a non-restorable tooth and planning a replacement. Our goal is to preserve your natural teeth and restore function so you can return to your celebration.

Reduce Risk for Future Festivities

A few habits lower your odds of emergencies. Schedule a pre-holiday checkup, wear a mouthguard for winter sports, avoid cracking nuts or hard candies with your teeth, and never use teeth to open packages. 

Pack an emergency kit with dental wax, gauze, and a small container with a lid. Keep our number saved in your phone and share it with a travel companion. Hydrate often, especially when flying, to keep oral tissues healthy.

If you need to respond quickly to a dental emergency during the holidays, call Aberdeen Smiles for compassionate, immediate care. We will help you feel better fast and keep your holiday bright. Call 605-277-9049 for an appointment in Aberdeen, SD. You can also schedule online.