Between travel, talent shows, and cookie marathons, the season is busy—and small tooth troubles can sneak in. A practical plan reduces stress and protects comfort until a professional can help, so your family can keep holiday magic intact while the festivities roll on.

Your First 60 Seconds Matter

Pause so kids mirror your calm. Have the person gently rinse with clean water to clear crumbs or grit. If there’s bleeding, hold clean gauze or a folded cloth with steady pressure until it eases. Use a cold compress on the cheek in brief intervals to limit puffiness. Avoid aspirin on gums and skip anything hot.

Chips, Cracks, and Scratchy Edges

If a tooth chips, gather any fragments and place them in a clean, lidded container. If a sharp edge is rubbing the tongue or cheek, cover it with orthodontic wax. Choose soft foods, chew on the opposite side, and avoid ultra-crunchy snacks until the tooth is evaluated. Never use household glues.

If a Permanent Tooth Is Knocked Out

Hold the tooth by the chewing end—keep fingers off the root. If it’s dirty, give it a quick water rinse without scrubbing. If it aligns easily, gently seat it back in the socket and bite on gauze to stabilize. If you can’t reinsert it, keep the tooth moist in milk or a preservation solution and seek urgent care. Do not reinsert a baby tooth.

When a Filling or Crown Comes Loose

Sticky caramels and brittle nuts can tug restorations free. For temporary comfort, place pharmacy-grade temporary dental material or a small piece of sugar-free gum over the spot. If a crown still fits, a tiny dab of temporary cement can hold it—never force it and never use super glue. Avoid chewing on that side.

Toothache, Pressure, or Puffiness

Gently floss to dislodge trapped food. Rinse with clean water. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help when used as directed. Call promptly if there’s facial swelling, fever, a pimple-like bump on the gums, trouble swallowing, or pain that interrupts sleep.

Braces & Aligner Bumps

For a poking wire, cushion the area with orthodontic wax; don’t trim it yourself. If a bracket loosens, leave it in place and contact your dental team. If an aligner cracks, step back to the previous tray and follow provider guidance before advancing.

Pack a “Holiday Smile Kit”

Tuck orthodontic wax, sterile gauze, single-use gloves, a travel toothbrush and floss, temporary dental material, a small lidded container, and your dentist’s number into every carry-on or glove box.

Get Back to Joy, Fast

Quick, sensible steps keep celebrations on track so your family can keep holiday magic without missing a beat. If a problem pops up, contact us for guidance and a prompt appointment—we’ll help you return to the festivities with comfortable, confident smiles. Call Charlotte Dentistry at 704-285-0846 to schedule your appointment in Charlotte, NC. You can also schedule online.