Lighthouse Family Dentistry provides emergency dental care to patients in Annapolis, MD. Emergency dental treatments offer preventative, general dental care. Immediately treating problems like a broken tooth or damaged restoration can help prevent further oral health and overall health problems.
If dental problems are left alone, patients may develop an unbalanced bite, tooth decay, gum disease, or even tooth loss. Our office can also immediately alleviate any pain or discomfort caused by a dental emergency.
We ask that patients call our office if they have a dental emergency. However, patients who are in severe pain or also have sustained physical injuries should call a hospital. Our dental team can provide further oral health treatment afterward.
Emergency Dental Care in Annapolis, MD
Some of the most common emergencies that we treat in our Annapolis, Maryland dental office include:
- Toothaches: Dental pain can often be caused by an impacted tooth, a dental cavity, a tooth injury, or gum disease. Because there are so many common causes of toothaches, we ask that you contact our office so we can find the cause of your pain.
- Knocked-Out Permanent Teeth: If you can, locate the tooth and hold it by its crown, or top. Rinse it in cool water. Then, place the tooth in a cup of cold milk. We may be able to restore your tooth if it is immediately transported to our office. If we cannot reattach the tooth, we can provide you with a dental implant. Dental implants are versatile dental restorations that replace one or more teeth. They provide a stable and long-lasting replacement that looks and functions just like a natural tooth.
- Damaged or Lost Restorations: If you have just broken a dental crown, bridge, or denture, please do not try to restore it. It may be tempting, but attempting to place your restoration back in your mouth can damage your teeth and gums. Call our dental office so we can provide you with a temporary restoration. We will also plan a new, durable restoration.
- Object Stuck Between Teeth: Gently floss between your teeth to try and dislodge the object from between your teeth. Do not try any other methods to remove the object, as this can damage your teeth. Call our office if you cannot remove the object. We have special dental tools that can help.
- Excessive Bleeding: It is common for patients to experience bleeding gums when they brush or floss. This is a common sign of gum inflammation. These bleeding gums are not an emergency, but can eventually lead to periodontitis. However, excessive bleeding is abnormal, particularly following a dental procedure. If a blood clot has not formed after oral surgery and keeps bleeding, contact our office.
Patient Review
Emergency Dentistry FAQs
Anyone can experience a dental emergency at any time. Learn more by reading the answers to these questions.
How do I know if my dental issue is an emergency?
If you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or trauma, your issue is likely an emergency. Symptoms that interfere with eating, speaking, or sleeping should be evaluated immediately. Mild discomfort may wait, but worsening symptoms require prompt care. When in doubt, contacting a dentist is the safest option.
What is a dental abscess, and why is it dangerous?
A dental abscess is a pocket of infection caused by bacteria. It often causes severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity. Left untreated, an abscess can lead to serious complications. Emergency dentists focus on draining the infection and addressing the source.
Can I go to the emergency room for a dental emergency?
Emergency rooms can help manage pain or infection, but do not provide definitive dental treatment. They may prescribe medication, but cannot fix the underlying issue. An emergency dentist is better equipped to address dental problems. Dental emergencies should be treated by dental professionals whenever possible.
What should I bring to an emergency dental visit?
Bring insurance information, medications, and any dental appliances involved. If a tooth or crown has fallen out, bring it with you. Clear communication helps diagnosis. Being prepared speeds up care.
Can emergency dentistry save my tooth?
Yes, emergency dentistry often focuses on saving natural teeth. Early treatment improves the chances of success. Stabilizing damaged teeth prevents further deterioration. Acting quickly makes a significant difference.
Can children have dental emergencies?
Yes, children can experience dental emergencies from injuries or infections. Prompt evaluation is important for developing teeth. Emergency dentists provide age-appropriate care. Early treatment protects long-term oral health.
Can emergency dentistry treat broken dental appliances?
Yes, emergency dentists can address issues with bridges, crowns, or dentures. Broken appliances can cause pain or irritation. Prompt repair improves comfort. Emergency care prevents further complications.
What if I’m unsure whether my issue is an emergency?
If you are uncertain, contact a dental office for guidance. Staff can help assess urgency. Ignoring potential emergencies is risky. It is better to seek advice early.
What should I do before seeing an emergency dentist?
Rinse your mouth gently and avoid irritating the area. Apply a cold compress for swelling. Avoid home remedies that may cause harm. Professional care is still necessary.
Will I need follow-up care after an emergency visit?
Many emergencies require additional treatment after initial care. Follow-up appointments can complete the restoration. Dentists explain the next steps clearly. Ongoing care ensures long-term success.
Contact Our Emergency Dentist Office Today
If you do not have an immediate dental emergency, but require oral health care, schedule a dental consultation with Dr. Meiser online. You may also contact Lighthouse Family Dentistry at 410-324-7287. Please let us know if you ever have any questions, and we will be glad to assist you.