When Tooth Trouble Strikes Between the Turkey and the Tinsel
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, until someone bites into a caramel candy and cracks a filling. Or a crown pops off right before family photos. Dental emergencies have a way of showing up when you least expect them, and often when your regular routine is on hold.
At Evergreen Smiles Dental, we know that holiday weekends shouldn’t include toothaches or dental panic. Our team is here to help you understand what counts as a holiday dental emergency and what to do until you can see your Evergreen Park dentist.
🩺 The American Dental Association (ADA) defines a dental emergency as any oral health issue causing severe pain, infection, or risk of permanent damage to teeth or gums.
Common Holiday Dental Emergencies
You might be surprised how often we see these seasonal smile mishaps:
- Chipped or cracked teeth from hard foods, nuts, or holiday treats
- Lost crowns or fillings while eating sticky candies
- Severe toothaches or abscesses that flare up overnight
- Knocked-out teeth during winter sports or roughhousing
- Broken dentures or bridges
- Soft tissue injuries from accidents or falls
While not every situation requires a same-day visit, it’s important to know what’s urgent — and what can safely wait until regular hours.
When to Call Right Away
If you notice any of the following, contact your dentist immediately:
- Intense or persistent tooth pain
- Swelling of the gums, face, or jaw
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- A knocked-out permanent tooth
- A broken crown or tooth with sharp edges
- Signs of infection (fever, bad taste, pus, or severe discomfort)
Prompt attention can save a tooth, and your holiday plans.
💡 Tip from the ADA: If a permanent tooth is knocked out, gently rinse it with water (no scrubbing) and place it back in the socket if possible, or keep it moist in milk until you reach the dentist.
When It’s Okay to Wait a Day or Two
Minor issues like a small chip, mild sensitivity, or a loose baby tooth usually don’t require emergency treatment. Still, schedule an appointment as soon as possible so we can prevent small problems from becoming big ones.
If pain develops or swelling appears, call right away, even if it’s after hours. We’ll help guide you on the next steps.
How to Prevent a Dental Emergency During the Holidays
- Skip overly sticky candies that can pull out fillings or crowns.
- Use scissors, not teeth, to open packages or ribbons (you’d be surprised how often this happens!).
- Wear a mouthguard if playing outdoor sports or skating.
- Stay consistent with brushing and flossing, even while traveling.
- Pack a small dental kit (toothbrush, floss, pain reliever) for holiday trips.
Your Evergreen Park Emergency Dental Team
No one plans for a dental emergency, especially during the holidays — but knowing who to call makes all the difference. At Evergreen Smiles Dental, we offer urgent dental care for Evergreen Park families when you need it most.
Whether it’s a cracked tooth, lost filling, or sudden pain, our experienced team is ready to restore your smile and your peace of mind.
👉 Learn more about our Emergency Dentistry in Evergreen Park and schedule your appointment for same-day assistance.
