Same-Day Emergency Dentist in Leonardtown: Reasons You Need One and What to Do Before You Get There

Are you wondering what qualifies as a dental emergency or what to do at home until you can see a same-day emergency dentist in Leonardtown?

If so, you are certainly in the right place! Your oral health is important and here, you can learn how to protect it.

Signs of a Dental Emergency, and What to Do at Home Before Getting Urgent Dental Care

Any trauma to the mouth resulting in significant pain or damage requires prompt care from a same-day emergency dentist in Leonardtown.

Depending on the type of problem, there are easy temporary measures you can take until you can receive professional care. When experiencing the following dental emergencies, you should be seen as soon as possible: 

• Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater and floss gently to remove any trapped food. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help ease discomfort.
• Knocked-out tooth: If possible, gently rinse the tooth with water, being careful not to touch the root. Try to reinsert the tooth into its socket, or keep it moist by placing it in milk or saliva until you can see the dentist.
• Cracked or broken tooth: Rinse your mouth with warm water, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on the affected tooth and see the dentist as soon as possible.
• Lost filling or crown: If you lose a filling or crown, try to keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth. Temporary dental cement, available at pharmacies, can be used to cover the exposed area until you see the dentist.
• Soft tissue injuries: Gently clean the injured area with warm water and apply pressure with gauze to stop bleeding. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
• Object stuck between teeth: Gently try to remove the object with dental floss, but be careful not to cause further injury. Avoid using sharp objects or excessive force. If you cannot unlodge the object, it is time to call a dentist. 
• Abscess or infection: Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day to help reduce pain and draw out infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage discomfort until you can get help.

Should I Go to an Emergency Room for Dental Emergencies?

Hospitals are not typically equipped to deal with dental concerns. However, if you are experiencing profuse bleeding, intense pain, or trouble breathing, you should call 911 or head to your local emergency room for help until you can see a dentist.

How Do I Find the Top Same-Day Emergency Dentist in Leonardtown?

Ultimately, your goal is to choose an emergency dentist who is board certified. Their qualifications should be easily verifiable.

There is more than one place to begin your search. Local dental clinics, family, friends, your regular dentist, and other healthcare professionals are valuable sources of information and can give recommendations.

Take time to read reviews. This allows you to get a sense of overall patient satisfaction and the level of care a dentist provides.

You can contact the dentist office directly to ask about their protocol for handling urgent dental issues. You should inquire about business hours, insurance, and typical response times.

Southern Maryland Turns to Our Team for the High-Quality Dental Care They Deserve

And you can too!

Our doctors have the experience and state-of-the-art technology to handle any dental concern. Call us now at 301-880-4439 to book your appointment!

The wellbeing and safety of our patients are always priorities, and we are proud to be southern Maryland’s #1 dental team.