The holiday season is meant to be filled with joy, family gatherings, and celebration. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most common times we see unexpected dental emergencies—especially among children and busy families. At Jacksonport Dental in NE Calgary, we often remind patients that dental emergencies don’t take holidays off.
As a family dentist, my goal is not just to treat emergencies but to help you recognize them early, respond calmly, and avoid unnecessary complications—especially when clinics have limited hours and schedules are packed.
This guide will help you understand what counts as a dental emergency, what to do immediately, and when to seek urgent dental care in Calgary during the holidays.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that causes severe pain, bleeding, swelling, infection, or trauma, or one that could worsen quickly if left untreated.
Common holiday-related dental emergencies include:
- Severe toothache or sudden pain
- Broken, cracked, or chipped teeth
- Knocked-out teeth (common in kids and teens)
- Facial swelling or dental abscess
- Lost fillings or crowns
- Bleeding gums that don’t stop
- Jaw pain after accidents or falls
If you are asking yourself, “Can this wait until next week?”—that’s often your signal to call.
Why Dental Emergencies Increase During the Holidays
From experience, we see a spike in emergency visits in late December and early January. Here’s why:
1. Holiday Treats and Hard Foods
Sticky candies, nuts, popcorn kernels, and hard toffees can crack teeth or dislodge fillings.
2. Busy Schedules
People delay minor discomfort, which can quickly escalate into severe pain or infection.
3. Kids Home From School
More play, sports, and winter activities mean a higher risk of dental trauma.
4. Travel and Weather
Cold weather can worsen tooth sensitivity, and travel accidents increase the risk of dental injuries.
Signs You Should See an Emergency Dentist Immediately
Contact an emergency dentist in NE Calgary if you or your child experience:
- Persistent tooth pain lasting more than 24 hours
- Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums
- Fever with tooth pain (possible infection)
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop
- A tooth knocked out or fractured
- Pain while biting or chewing that appeared suddenly
Delaying care can lead to infection spreading, higher treatment costs, and more invasive procedures.
What to Do in Common Dental Emergencies (First Aid Guide)
Severe Toothache
- Rinse gently with warm salt water
- Take pain relief if needed (avoid placing medication on gums)
- Do not ignore pain lasting more than a day
Knocked-Out Tooth
- Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root
- Rinse gently if dirty (do not scrub)
- Place it back in the socket if possible or keep it in milk
- Seek emergency dental care immediately
Broken or Chipped Tooth
- Rinse mouth with warm water
- Save any broken pieces
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
Swelling or Abscess
- This is a dental emergency
- Do not apply heat
- Call your dentist immediately
Emergency Dental Care for Children During the Holidays
Children are especially vulnerable during the holidays. We often see:
- Chipped front teeth from falls
- Cavities worsening due to sugary snacks
- Toothaches that were ignored during the school year
As a parent, trust your instinct. If your child is:
- Avoiding food
- Crying due to mouth pain
- Waking up at night with discomfort
…it’s time to book an emergency dental visit.
Can Dental Emergencies Wait Until After the Holidays?
In most cases, no.
Waiting can lead to:
- Infection spreading to surrounding tissues
- Root canal treatment instead of a simple filling
- Tooth loss
- More pain and higher costs
Even if the issue seems manageable, a quick assessment can prevent long-term damage.
Why Choose Jacksonport Dental for Emergency Dental Care in NE Calgary
At Jacksonport Dental, we understand that emergencies are stressful—especially during the holidays. Our clinic is designed to support families with:
- Emergency dental appointments
- Compassionate, clear communication
- Modern diagnostic tools
- Family-friendly care for all ages
- Convenient NE Calgary location
Our focus is not just fixing the problem but ensuring you feel informed and supported throughout the process.
How to Reduce the Risk of Holiday Dental Emergencies
Prevention is always better than emergency treatment. Simple steps include:
- Scheduling a dental check-up before the holidays
- Limiting sticky and hard treats
- Wearing mouthguards during sports
- Maintaining regular brushing and flossing
- Addressing small dental issues early
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is tooth pain always a dental emergency?
Not always, but pain that is severe, persistent, or worsening should be assessed immediately.
What should I do if my child knocks out a tooth?
Act quickly. Keep the tooth moist and see a dentist immediately. Time is critical.
Can a broken filling wait?
A lost or broken filling exposes the tooth and can lead to pain or infection. It’s best treated as soon as possible.
Are dental abscesses dangerous?
Yes. An abscess is an infection that can spread and should never be ignored.
Do emergency dental visits cost more?
Costs depend on the treatment needed. Early care often prevents more expensive procedures later.
Final Thoughts from Dr. Richa Bhatnagar
Dental emergencies can disrupt the joy of the holiday season—but they don’t have to. With the right information and timely care, most emergencies can be handled quickly and comfortably.
If you or your child experiences dental pain or trauma during the holidays, don’t wait. Early care protects your smile, your health, and your peace of mind.
