Dental emergencies often happen when you least expect them. If you’re dealing with one, try to stay calm and contact our dentist as soon as possible. At our Towson, MD dental office, we prioritize dental emergencies and will do our best to see you right away.
Emergency Dentistry in Towson, MD
Dr. Keith Boenning and Dr. Nate Dancykier are here to help you restore your smile after a dental emergency. If you’re not sure whether you’re having a dental emergency, it’s always a good idea to call us first. You should treat sudden pain, damage, or trauma to your teeth or gums as a dental emergency.
We’re ready to evaluate your oral health and take care of any urgent dental issues. Here are some common dental emergencies we treat:
Broken or Cracked Tooth
A broken or cracked tooth can expose the inner part of the tooth, leading to pain, sensitivity, and a higher chance of infection. Getting fast treatment is important to prevent further damage and restore the tooth’s appearance and function. Before your visit, press a clean gauze pad against the damaged tooth. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort until a dentist can see you.
Depending on the severity of the break, we might suggest a crown or, in extreme cases, a tooth extraction. A crown can cover and protect the damaged tooth. If the tooth is beyond saving, you might need an extraction and a replacement tooth instead.
Knocked-Out Teeth
Don’t panic if one of your permanent teeth gets knocked out, and try to find the tooth. Pick it up by the crown, not the root, to avoid damaging it further. Place the tooth in a glass of milk or your saliva to keep it moist while you head to our office.
If you can get to us quickly, there’s a chance we can reattach the tooth. If the dentist can’t save the tooth, don’t worry. We can discuss options like a dental implant or a bridge to replace it.
Toothaches
Toothaches can happen for many reasons, including cavities, gum disease, or a cracked tooth. Sometimes, overcrowded or impacted teeth can cause pain as well. If you have a toothache, take an over-the-counter pain reliever and apply a cold compress to your jaw.
See us as soon as possible so we can figure out what’s causing the pain and fix it. Ignoring a toothache could lead to more pain and bigger problems down the road.
Dental Crown Fell Out
If your dental crown falls off, it’s important to replace it soon. Your tooth can survive without it for a little while, but it will start to get sensitive and is more prone to infection. The first thing you should do is call our office to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Dancykier can reattach the crown or fit you with a new one. While you wait for your appointment, keep the crown clean and avoid using that tooth to chew. If you have any questions or concerns, call our office, and we’ll guide you through the steps you need to take.
Abscessed Tooth
An abscessed tooth is a painful infection near the root or between the tooth and gum. It happens when bacteria enter through a cavity or crack. Common symptoms include a throbbing toothache, swelling, fever, and a foul taste in the mouth.
If left untreated, the infection can spread. Dr. Flax can drain the abscess to remove the infection. In some instances, you may need a root canal to save the tooth. The dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection and swelling.
Bleeding Gums That Won’t Stop
Gums that bleed and won’t stop could indicate an injury or a more serious condition like gum disease. If you notice ongoing bleeding, it’s important to see a dentist right away. The dentist will thoroughly check your gums to find the cause.
Dr. Boenning or Dr. Dancykier may suggest a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar or treat any gum injuries. In more serious cases, you might need medications or other treatments. Either way, we will stop the bleeding and address the underlying problem before you leave. By making sure you act quickly and get the right care, you can minimize the damage from a dental emergency.
Dental Emergency FAQs
Whether your dental emergency is minor or serious, our Towson dental office is ready to help. If you’re unsure what to do or have questions about your situation, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to provide guidance and support.
Can the ER pull an infected tooth or broken tooth?
Generally, the hospital emergency room is not the best place for dental problems. That is unless you have a severe issue like non-stop bleeding. Emergency rooms don’t have the right equipment or trained staff to handle most dental procedures. They can provide antibiotics if you have an infection or pain relievers, but they won’t be able to fix the problem.
For a tooth infection, toothache, or broken tooth, your first step should be to contact an emergency dentist. Our dental specialists can address the problem directly and quickly.
Can I go to the emergency room for any dental issues?
The emergency room (ER) is not for dental problems unless it is a severe emergency like nonstop bleeding. The ER does not possess the necessary dental equipment or expertise to perform most dental procedures. ER, doctors can give you antibiotics if you have a toothache or infection. If you have a tooth infection, toothache, or broken tooth, it’s best to contact our emergency dentist first.
What should I do if I have a toothache?
If you have a toothache, seeing a dentist as soon as possible is important. While waiting for your appointment, you can try a few home remedies to ease the pain. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, apply a cold compress to the area, or take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
Avoid putting aspirin directly on your gums or tooth because this can cause irritation and damage. Remember, these are just temporary fixes. You’ll need to see a dentist to learn what’s causing the pain and get proper treatment.
Are bleeding gums a dental emergency?
Bleeding gums aren’t always a dental emergency, but they could be a sign of a problem that needs attention. If your gums bleed regularly or a lot, schedule an appointment with our dentists as soon as possible.
Things like gum disease or poor oral hygiene can cause bleeding gums. Our dentist can help figure out what’s causing the bleeding and recommend treatment to prevent it from getting worse.
Do emergency dentists do root canals?
Yes, some emergency dentists can perform root canals. However, not all emergency dental offices offer this service. So it’s a good idea to call ahead and ask about their services. If you’re in severe pain and need help outside regular hours, an emergency dentist might be able to help.
Contact Us During a Dental Emergency
If you’re dealing with a dental emergency, contact our office right away. Our staff will guide you through what to do next. We may have you come in immediately, or schedule you for the next available appointment. We’ll do our best to see you as soon as possible!