What should I do while waiting for my emergency dental appointment?
The most important thing is to stay calm and manage your pain and symptoms safely until you can receive proper emergency dental care in East Grand Rapids.
Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency
Taking the right steps can prevent your situation from worsening and help you feel more comfortable.
- Immediate Pain Management — Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are often most effective for dental pain because they reduce inflammation. Follow package directions and alternate with acetaminophen if needed. Apply a cold compress to the outside of your face for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
- What to Avoid — Don't chew on the affected side, avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks, and skip hard or crunchy foods that could cause additional damage. Never put aspirin directly on your gums.
- Protecting Damaged Teeth — If you've lost a filling or crown, gently clean the area and cover it with dental wax or sugar-free gum until your appointment.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Go to the emergency room if you have difficulty swallowing, breathing problems, severe facial swelling, excessive bleeding, or signs of a serious infection like fever and chills. These symptoms require immediate medical intervention beyond what a dental office can provide.
Don't wait to get the care you need! Call us immediately at (616) 454-8228 for emergency dental care. We serve patients throughout East Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids, Ada, and the surrounding West Michigan communities.