11 Signs You Need to Call an Emergency Dentist in Leonardtown

Life doesn’t present many opportunities to prepare for an emergency situation. But when it comes to your oral health, you can find an emergency dentist in Leonardtown ahead of time so you know who to call when the time comes. 

Does a lost or loose filling qualify as an urgent matter? What about a broken tooth? Here, you can discover what is considered an emergency, what to do at home until you can see your dentist, and advice on making the appointment. 

What Qualifies as a Dental Emergency?

If you experience any of the following, it’s crucial to seek immediate assistance from an emergency dentist in Leonardtown: 

• Abscess (infection) or swelling in the mouth

• Bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure

• Broken or cracked tooth

• Dental trauma or injury to the mouth

• Extreme toothache or severe dental pain

• Loose / lost filling

• Lost or knocked-out tooth

• Objects lodged between teeth causing pain or discomfort

• Persistent gum bleeding or inflammation

• Sudden sensitivity to hot or cold
• Unexplained swelling or lumps in the mouth or neck area

What Is the Best Way to Make an Emergency Appointment?

Generally, most dentists reserve time in their schedule for same-day dental emergencies. When you call, say you have an emergency. Be ready to explain what is happening. If you are unable to make the call yourself, have someone you trust as a backup to make the call for you. 

If your regular dentist is not available, be flexible and open to seeing someone else. They should have access to your records and be able to treat you in an emergency situation.

What Should I Do at Home Before I Seek Help?

This is a good question to ask your dentist at your next regular appointment as you should follow their specific guidelines, but there are some tips to keep in mind.

• For toothaches, rinse with warm water, floss, and consider pain relief medication. 
• Lost fillings can be temporarily filled with over-the-counter dental cement. 

• Rinse and apply a cold compress if you have a broken tooth. 

• Use gentle flossing for lodged food or objects, avoiding sharp items. 
• Rinse bleeding gums with salt water and apply gauze.

The Difference Between a Regular Dentist and Emergency Dentist

While both require similar educational prerequisites, their backgrounds and training may vary. For instance, a reputable emergency board-certified dentist likely pursued coursework specifically focused on emergency dental services.

How Do I Find the Best Emergency Dentist in Leonardtown?

Prepare by organizing your priorities such as insurance acceptance, convenient location, extended hours, and same-day appointments. Jot down any questions you have.

Confirm their licensing and credentials. You can often find this information on their website or by contacting dental boards. Assess their experience, skills, and qualifications to handle diverse emergency dental situations.

Vet the facility too. It should be clean, organized, welcoming, and the technology needs to be up to date. While there, observe the friendliness and professionalism of the dentist and staff. As a patient, you have the right to be treated with respect.

Read feedback and testimonials online for insights into the level of care a dentist provides, their bedside manner, and patient satisfaction.

Trust your instincts in choosing a dentist who prioritizes safety, comfort, clear communication, and empathy.

Your Search for Emergency Dental Care Ends When You Choose our Team!

If you need help, call us at 301-880-4439 to book your same-day appointment. Our dynamic team of board-certified dentists have years of experience in treating both urgent and non-urgent dental concerns.

Never delay treatment. Small, treatable emergencies can become much bigger problems later. Protect your oral health, and call us now!