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At Kellerman Dental, we know that dental emergencies can happen unexpectedly, and they often raise plenty of important questions. Drs. Kevin Kellerman and Jesse Snyder are here to help you feel prepared, informed, and confident when a dental emergency arises. Whether you have chipped a tooth, are experiencing severe pain, or have other urgent dental concerns, the staff at our Glen Carbon, Illinois, office is ready to provide the care you need. To help you better understand emergency dental care, we have compiled the answers to a few commonly asked questions.
A dental emergency includes any situation that requires prompt attention to alleviate pain or prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. Examples include severe toothache, broken or chipped teeth, knocked-out teeth, lost fillings or crowns, abscesses, gum injuries, or sudden swelling. If you are unsure, it is always best to contact a professional.
The timing depends on the issue, but many emergencies require immediate attention. For example, a knocked-out tooth has the best chance of being saved and remaining in the mouth if it is treated within the first 30 minutes. Other concerns, like toothaches or lost crowns, should also be addressed as soon as possible to prevent worsening complications.
If you knock a tooth out of your mouth, handle it carefully by the crown, avoiding the root. Rinse it out gently with water, but do not scrub or dry it. If possible, place the tooth back in its socket and hold it in place while seeking dental care. If that is not possible, keep the tooth soaked in milk or saliva to keep it moist and contact Kellerman Dental immediately.
While some temporary relief methods, such as rinsing with saltwater or taking over-the-counter pain relievers, can help, a severe toothache requires professional attention. Pain is a signal that something is wrong, and delaying treatment could lead to further complications.
If you happen to lose a dental filling or crown, try to keep the entire area clean and try to avoid eating on that side of your mouth. You can use dental cement from a drugstore as a temporary fix, but you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible to have the issue properly addressed.
Swelling in the mouth or gum tissues often indicates an infection or abscess, which commonly leads to serious complications if left untreated. Contact our dental office immediately if you see swelling, as prompt care is essential for addressing the underlying cause.
If you are searching for emergency dental “near me” in the Edwardsville, Illinois area or emergency dental services “near me” in the Edwardsville, Illinois area, the team at Kellerman Dental at 16 Junction Drive West, Suite 101, Glen Carbon, Illinois, is here to help. Drs. Kevin Kellerman and Jesse Snyder provide compassionate, expert care to address your dental emergencies. Remember, acting quickly can prevent pain and protect your long-term oral health. If you or a family member experiences a dental emergency, call our office at (618) 228-3100. Our team is prepped and ready to provide you with top-notch care when you need it most!

Dr. Kevin Kellerman is an alumnus of Pinckneyville Community High School, Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, and SIUE School of Dental Medicine from where he obtained his doctorate.
A full-time dental practitioner, he also lectures on various topics. He is affiliated with many professional bodies including the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, American Orthodontic Society, Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Association, and the Glen Carbon/Edwardsville Chamber of Commerce.
Dr. Kellerman and team are known for higher levels of service and patient care and for utilizing advanced technologies in treatments. He also participates in community projects and believes in giving back to the community that he serves.