Featured Answer: What if I can't see a dentist immediately?
For a toothache, rinse with warm salt water and take over-the-counter pain relievers. If a tooth is knocked out, keep it moist in milk and seek care within an hour. For a lost filling, temporary dental cement from a pharmacy can protect the area until your visit.
The "Not-So-Merry" Surprise
The holidays are filed with joy, but they also bring risks to your teeth—from hard peppermint candies to opening packages with your teeth (please don't!). When a dental emergency strikes on Christmas Eve or New Year's, knowing what to do can save your smile.
Common Holiday Dental Emergencies & Quick Fixes
1. The Cracked Tooth
The Culprit: Hard candy, nutshells, or ice. The Fix: Rinse with warm water. Applying a cold compress can reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on that side and call us as soon as we reopen.
2. The Severe Toothache
The Culprit: Deep decay or infection flared up by sweets or stress. The Fix: Floss gently to remove lodged food. Don't put aspirin directly on gums (it burns!). Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen and prop your head up with pillows when sleeping.
3. The Knocked-Out Tooth
The Culprit: Winter sports or accidental falls. The Fix: This is urgent. Handle the tooth by the crown (top), not the root. Rinse gently if dirty, but don't scrub. Try to reinsert it into the socket or store it in milk. Call an emergency number immediately.
Preventive Tips for Marlborough Families
- tool, not a tool: Don't use teeth to crack nuts, open bottle caps, or tear tape.
- Wear a guard: If you're playing winter sports or grinding teeth from stress, a mouthguard is essential.
- Watch the hard stuff: Be careful with popcorn kernels and frozen treats.
When to Call Innova Smiles
While some issues can wait a day or two, others require immediate attention. If you have severe pain, bleeding that won't stop, or a knocked-out tooth, seek emergency care.
Internal Links
- Emergency services overview → Emergency Dentistry
- Need a restorative solution? → Dental Crowns
- Contact us → Book Online
We hope your holidays are safe and happy! If you need us, Innova Smiles is here for the Marlborough community. Call (508) 481-0110.
