We understand that dental problems can arise suddenly and be potentially uncomfortable and alarming. If you experience a dental emergency, please call us so we can schedule our earliest available time to address the problem in our Woodstock, MD, office. We greatly appreciate any details about your concern, and sharing these can help us best help you.
Our team may ask questions about your dental history if you are experiencing pain and whether you have tooth sensitivity. Emergency dentistry provides preventive dental care to preserve the smile and prevent further oral health problems. Additionally, we provide general dentistry services to the public in Woodstock, MD.
Emergency Dentistry in Woodstock, MD
Common dental emergencies that we treat in our office include:
Knocked-Out Permanent Tooth
If you have just lost a permanent adult tooth, hold it by its crown and rinse it in water. You can try to place the tooth back in its socket and gently bite down. If you cannot reattach your tooth, bring it to our office in a small cup of saliva. Keeping the tooth moist can increase our chances of replacing the tooth. However, if we cannot replace the tooth, we will recommend a dental implant. Dental implants are
Broken Tooth
Tooth chips, cracks, or fractures can often be sudden problems. If you find a broken piece of your tooth, place it in a cup of saliva, and we may be able to reattach it. We can also provide dental bonding, veneers, or crowns to treat a damaged tooth or an injury.
Bonding treatment adds structure to injured teeth with malleable material that we harden with a curing light. Veneers are porcelain shells that we can bond to the front of teeth. Dental crowns fully cover teeth and are beneficial for molars and other teeth that aid in biting and chewing.
Toothaches
Tooth pain and toothaches are common oral health issues with various causes. Sometimes, tooth decay, a tooth abscess, or an object stuck between teeth can cause tooth pain. Our first suggestion is to use floss to try to remove the object stuck between your teeth. If you have swelling, apply a cold compress to the outside of your cheek. You may also take pain medication before your appointment. We will consider your symptoms to find the best treatment for your tooth pain.
Damaged Dental Restorations
Have you just broken a crown, filling, bridge, or denture? Call our office. Do not try to place the restoration back in your mouth. Call our office, and we will create a new restoration for you. We can also provide a temporary restoration so you can eat and speak comfortably without damaging your teeth and gums.
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
A dental emergency can happen to anyone at any time. Learn more by reading the answers to the questions we commonly get asked by patients.
What is considered a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires immediate attention to stop pain, bleeding, or infection. This includes severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken teeth, abscesses, and uncontrolled bleeding. Dental emergencies can worsen quickly if left untreated. Seeking prompt care helps prevent complications and may save the tooth.
When should I see an emergency dentist instead of waiting?
You should see an emergency dentist if you are experiencing intense pain, swelling, bleeding, or trauma to your mouth. Waiting can allow infections to spread or cause permanent damage to teeth and gums. Emergency dentists are trained to stabilize urgent issues quickly. Early treatment often results in simpler and more effective care.
Can I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?
Emergency rooms can help manage severe infections, trauma, or uncontrolled bleeding, but they do not provide definitive dental treatment. They may prescribe pain medication or antibiotics. An emergency dentist is best equipped to treat the underlying dental issue. Whenever possible, dental emergencies should be handled by dental professionals.
What are the signs of a dental infection that need urgent care?
Signs of a dental infection include persistent pain, facial swelling, redness, pus, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth. These symptoms suggest the infection may be spreading. Emergency dentists can diagnose and treat infections before they become dangerous. Prompt care reduces the risk of serious health complications.
What should I do if my gums are bleeding excessively?
Excessive gum bleeding that does not stop is considered an emergency. It may be caused by trauma, advanced gum disease, or other medical issues. Applying gentle pressure can help temporarily, but professional evaluation is necessary. Emergency dentists can identify the cause and stop the bleeding safely.
Will emergency dental treatment stop the pain immediately?
Emergency dental treatment is designed to relieve pain as quickly as possible. While complete resolution may require follow-up care, initial treatment often provides significant relief. Dentists may address infections, nerve issues, or trauma right away. Pain management is a top priority during emergency visits.
What should I bring to an emergency dental appointment?
Bring any relevant dental records, insurance information, and a list of medications you take. If a tooth or restoration has fallen out, bring it with you. Being prepared helps the dentist provide faster and more effective care. Clear communication about symptoms is also important.
How can I manage pain before seeing an emergency dentist?
You can manage pain temporarily with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gums. These measures do not replace professional care. Seeing an emergency dentist is still essential.
Can I take antibiotics instead of seeing an emergency dentist?
Antibiotics alone do not treat the underlying cause of most dental emergencies. They may temporarily reduce infection, but will not fix decay or damage. Only a dentist can provide definitive treatment. Relying solely on medication can worsen the condition over time.
What if I am unsure whether my issue is an emergency?
If you are unsure, it is best to contact a dental office for guidance. Many practices can assess symptoms over the phone. Ignoring potential emergencies can lead to worsening conditions. When in doubt, seek professional advice.
Receive Dental Care Today
Call Dr. Mazzella for treatment today at (410) 559-9951. If you have a dental problem but do not require emergency care, schedule your next dental appointment on our website.