Some dental problems can happen suddenly. If you knock out a tooth or feel tooth pain, you need dental care. We provide emergency dentistry services in Towson, MD. Dr. Kevin Welinsky of Sweet Tooth Dentistry wants to help patients get back to good oral health and overall health. Emergency care is part of our general dentistry services.
Are You Experiencing An Emergency Dental Situation?
Here are guidelines on how to handle common oral discomforts and injuries and when these require emergency dental care or common general dental services:
A Toothache
See Dr. Welinsky as soon as you feel discomfort or pain. Refrain from using products like Orajel for prolonged periods of time since this only hides the issue. However, over-the-counter pain medications and Orajel can be used until you’re able to be seen in the office to keep pain under control. Use a cold compress if you’re experiencing any swelling.
Broken, Chipped, Or Cracked Tooth
Rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to your face. Go to Welinsky Dental Center right away. If the tooth was broken or chipped, bring the tooth fragment wrapped in wet gauze or a wet towel if possible. Depending on the damage, Dr. Welinsky will recommend a restoration option that’s the right choice for you.
Loosened or Knocked-Out Tooth
It’s easy to panic if you lose your tooth due to trauma. However, try your best to remain calm and retrieve the tooth. Rinse it off gently to get rid of any dirt or debris, but don’t scrub as it can damage the tooth.
Put the tooth in a cup of saliva to preserve it longer. We may be able to reattach the tooth at the office. If the tooth isn’t viable for replacement, we also offer tooth replacement options, such as dental implants.
Broken Dental Restoration
If it’s a bridge or denture that’s broke, pick up the pieces and bring them with you to the appointment. If it’s a dental crown that’s broken or has fallen out, don’t attempt to replace the crown or the broken part. Bring it with you to our office. In both instances, Dr. Welinsky will determine whether it’s better to repair or replace the restoration.
Emergency Dentistry: What to Expect
An emergency dental situation can be very stressful and life-altering. When you come to Sweet Tooth Dentistry, we have the experience, ability, and personality to put your mind at ease and to soothe away any anxiety you may feel.
Once we have addressed your dental emergency, we will likely schedule a re-evaluation for existing patients of the practice, or a comprehensive exam for new patients.
To get help with a dental emergency just walk into the office or call 410-321-8480. If your emergency is outside of our typical working hours, call us to connect to our emergency dental services line for proper guidance.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
You can prevent the need for quick dental care by following these tips:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles. This helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and infections.
- Visit Our Dentist Regularly: Schedule dental checkups and cleanings every six months. Dr. Welinsky can spot early signs of dental issues. He can treat these problems before they become emergencies.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you play sports or grind your teeth at night, use a custom mouthguard. It can protect your teeth from injury or damage. Custom mouthguards are a great option for athletes of all ages.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Do not chew on hard candies, ice, or popcorn kernels. They can crack or break your teeth. Stick to softer foods to avoid tooth damage.
- Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite down on non-food items. You could chip or fracture your teeth.
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
Read answers to common questions about emergency dentistry care in Towson, MD:
How do I know if I have a dental emergency?
A dental issue is considered an emergency when it happens and you need assistance immediately. This includes a knocked-out tooth, broken or chipped teeth, or a damaged dental restoration. Quick action can help save your tooth and reduce the risk of complications.
What is not a dental emergency?
Some dental problems may need care but are not an emergency:
- Object Stuck Between Teeth: First, try to dislodge the object with floss. If this does not work, you can try a toothpick. Do not try to remove the object with anything else. Call our office for an appointment if you need further help.
- Small Tooth Chip or Crack: A small break in a tooth does not need immediate care. However, we may recommend treatment like bonding to fix the tooth. A tooth chip or crack may worsen over time.
- Bitten Tongue or Lip: Clean the area with a wet cloth and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. The pain will also fade over time. If the bleeding persists or is excessive, go to an emergency center.
Do I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?
Not unless you have excess bleeding, a concussion, or other physical injuries. Hospital and urgent care staff are not trained in dental care and aren’t able to provide you with any. If you have a dental emergency, you must go to a licensed dental professional.
When is tooth pain considered an emergency?
Sharp, persistent tooth pain is most commonly an emergency. If the pain is so severe that over-the-counter medication can’t help or the pain continues to get worse, you need emergency dental care.
Schedule a Consultation
Did you just break a tooth? Do you have a toothache? Contact Dr. Welinsky for emergency dentistry services in Towson, MD. Call us at 410-321-8480. You can also use our online appointment request form if you do not need urgent dental care and we will contact you shortly.
Dr. Welinsky’s Baltimore, MD area dentist office is convenient for patients in Towson, West Towson, Parkville, and many suburbs in Baltimore, MD.