How to Handle a Dental Emergency During the Holidays

The holidays are filled with family time, festive meals, and well-earned rest — but dental problems don’t always respect the calendar. At River Stone Dental Center in Germantown, MD, we understand how frustrating it can be when a sudden toothache or broken crown threatens to derail your plans.

Dental emergencies can catch anyone off guard, especially when regular schedules are disrupted and many offices are closed. That’s why Dr. Peajmun Razmjou and our team are here to help you understand what qualifies as a true emergency, what you can do in the moment, and how to get care when you need it most — even during the holidays.

When is It Considered an Emergency?

Not every twinge or minor chip requires immediate treatment, but some situations truly do. Severe pain that doesn’t go away, swelling in the gums or face, a knocked-out tooth, or bleeding that won’t stop — those are red flags that call for prompt care. Dental infections, cracked teeth, or restorations that suddenly fall out (especially when they leave sharp edges or exposed nerves) also deserve attention sooner rather than later.

During the holidays, it can be tempting to wait things out, especially if the pain comes and goes. But with certain dental issues, early treatment can mean the difference between saving a tooth and more complex, costly procedures later on.

What You Can Do at Home

Until you can get in touch with a professional, there are a few simple steps that can bring temporary relief and help protect the tooth. Start by rinsing gently with warm salt water — this can help soothe irritated tissues and flush out debris. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can ease pain and swelling, and a cold compress placed on the outside of the cheek can be useful for injuries or inflammation.

If a tooth has been knocked out, time matters. Gently rinse it with water (without scrubbing), and try to place it back in the socket if you can. If not, keep it moist — in milk or in the cheek pocket — and call River Stone Dental Center as soon as possible. The sooner you’re seen, the better the chances of saving the tooth.

Lost crowns or fillings can often be stabilized temporarily by placing dental wax or even sugar-free gum over the area to protect it. Just be sure to avoid chewing on that side, and schedule an appointment right away so we can provide a permanent fix.

Where to Turn for Help

Even when our office is closed for the holidays, we’re still here for our patients. If you call us after hours, you’ll find instructions on how to reach Dr. Razmjou or arrange emergency care. In more serious situations — such as swelling that affects breathing or intense pain that can’t be managed — visiting a local urgent care or emergency room may be necessary for initial support until you can follow up with us.

We encourage patients to act sooner rather than later. Pain is a sign that something needs attention, and waiting too long can often mean more invasive treatment is needed down the road.

The Holiday Challenge: Prevention

Of course, the best dental emergency is the one that doesn’t happen. During the holidays, it’s easy to get off routine — brushing gets skipped, flossing feels like an afterthought, and crunchy holiday snacks tempt even the most cautious eaters. But a few small choices can help you avoid unwanted surprises.

Be mindful when biting into hard foods like nuts or candy canes, and avoid using your teeth to open packaging (we see this more than you might think). If you or your child plays contact sports over the winter break, don’t forget to use a mouthguard. And if you’ve been putting off treatment — like getting a crown placed or replacing a damaged filling — consider handling it before the year ends.

Dental Emergencies at River Stone Dental Center in Germantown, MD

At River Stone Dental Center, we understand how important it is to feel prepared — especially during the busiest time of the year. If you experience a dental emergency during the holidays, know that Dr. Peajmun Razmjou and our team are just a call away. We’ll talk you through your options, help manage urgent issues, and get you back to comfort as quickly as possible.

Keep our number nearby as you enjoy the season. And if anything unexpected comes up, we’re ready to help protect your smile — so you can focus on what matters most.

Categorised in: Emergency Dentistry