Did you know that your overall health is directly linked to your oral health? It’s true! Leaving dental concerns untreated can have a long term impact and lead to bigger issues.
Here, an emergency dentist in Lexington Park answers the most frequently asked questions so you know what to do if an urgent situation arises.
What Does a Dentist Consider an Emergency?
While your dentist wants you to call anytime you have a concern, there are certain instances when treatment should not be delayed. This includes severe toothaches, broken teeth, lost fillings or crowns, knocked-out teeth, abscesses, bleeding gums, and oral injuries.
Sudden or severe pain, trauma, or bleeding in the mouth also require immediate attention from an emergency dentist in Lexington Park.
Why Can’t I Go to the Hospital for a Dental Emergency?
You should when in doubt, and certainly for the following reasons:
- A tooth knocked out due to facial impact that requires assessment for jaw fractures or dislocation
- An abscessed tooth causing fever, chills, severe pain, pus discharge, and breathing or swallowing difficulty that indicate a serious infection
- Profuse bleeding from severe mouth lacerations
- Trauma affecting jaw function
- Injuries causing intolerable mouth or tooth pain
Restorative dental work is not typically performed at a hospital but they can treat other physical issues, and offer pain medications and antibiotics until you can see an emergency dentist.
What if I Just Have a Toothache?
This depends on how severe your pain is and how long it has lasted.
If your toothache has lasted for two days, it’s important to see a dentist to determine the cause. At home, you can try taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication as prescribed, rinsing your mouth with salt water, and being mindful of what you eat / how you chew until you can get help.
Is a Knocked Out Tooth Considered Urgent?
Yes, it is. Leaving it untreated can lead to bone loss, infection, and potential complications in neighboring teeth and gums.
Handle it carefully by the crown, and do not touch the root. Rinse the tooth gently, and try reinserting it into the socket if possible. If not, store it in milk or saliva until you see a dentist.
How Do I Make an Appointment With an Emergency Dentist in Lexington Park?
Call as soon as possible and explain you have an emergency. Be prepared to give them details about your symptoms and what has occured. Most dentists leave room in their schedules for same-day appointments. If your dentist is not available, you can’t find another one, and the pain can’t wait, head to the hospital.
Do I Have to Be an Existing Patient to See an Emergency Dentist?
Not always, but you should call ahead if you can to be sure. If your dentist does not have urgent care hours, or is unable to schedule same-day appointments, ask them to refer you to one you can call during an emergency.
How Do I Prevent Dental Emergencies?
Unfortunately, they can’t all be avoided, but measures to prevent a disaster on your part go a long way toward protecting your oral health. Of course, you should seek specific advice from your regular dentist, but keep these guidelines in mind:
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Visit your dentist regularly.
- Wear protective gear (especially during sports activities).
- Avoid chewing hard objects (ice, pens, pencils should be off limits).
- Don’t use teeth as tools (They aren’t meant to open bottles!)
- Address dental issues promptly.
- Limit sugary and acidic foods.
- Practice relaxation techniques so you don’t grind your teeth.
People In Lexington Park Turn to Our Nearby Team for Help When They Need it Most!
As Southern Maryland’s top rated dental team, our priorities are always your safety, comfort, and oral health. Call us today at 301-880-4439 or request your appointment online now!
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