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 milk or saliva to preserve it longer. The dentist may be able to reattach the tooth at the office. We also offer tooth replacement options, such as dental implants, if the tooth isn’t viable for replacement.
Broken Jaw
Apply ice or a cold compress to the face. Go to Welinsky Dental Center or an emergency center immediately.
Bitten Tongue or Lip
Clean the area with a wet cloth and place a cold compress on the area to reduce swelling. If the bleeding persists or if it is excessive, go to Welinsky Dental Center or an emergency center.
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.
Schedule a Consultation
Have you experienced tooth trauma or are currently experiencing severe pain in your mouth or jaw? Then schedule a consultation with Dr. Welinsky today. Contact us at 410-321-8480 or use our online appointment request form 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.
Emergency Dentistry: What to Expect
An emergency dental situation can be very stressful and life-altering. Upon coming to Welinsky Dental Care, 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 situation occurs outside of our typical working hours, call us to connect to our emergency dental services line for proper guidance.
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
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.
Do I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?
Not unless there’s a cut or something in your mouth. 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, it’s important to 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, emergency dental care is warranted.