Dental emergencies can happen to anyone at any time. Knowing what to do in the case of a dental emergency can save you time, discomfort, and money. Emergency dentist, Dr. Justin Deckard and our team at DC Precision Dentistry are committed to helping each patient receive the care they need in a timely manner. Emergency dental procedures are one of the general dentistry services we provide to the public.
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call (202) 851-7554. Our dental care team will work with you to schedule an emergency appointment as soon as possible. In the event of excessive bleeding or injury to the face, call 9-1-1.
If you are having a dental emergency, it is crucial that you receive the care they need to prevent further damage. Our team at DC Precision Dentistry works closely with our patients to assess the problems and create a solution based on their needs.
Common Dental Emergencies
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a build-up of pus that develops inside the teeth or gums. A dental abscess may develop from a bacterial infection. Patients may need to undergo a root canal to relieve the pain or discomfort. Never attempt to drain an abscess in the mouth at home.
Tooth Fracture
Tooth fractures may lead to pulp exposure. This can cause patients a great deal of pain or discomfort. You should keep any part of a broken tooth hydrated in case the dentist is able to reattach it.
Tooth Pain
The first step to treating tooth pain is to discover the source of the pain. Tooth pain may stem from gum disease, dental trauma, tooth decay, infection, or other dental concerns.
Dental Trauma
Dental trauma may result in chipped, fractured, or broken teeth. This is a common dental emergency in children and active patients.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can happen to any patient, no matter their age or the condition of their oral health. Even patients with healthy teeth are not immune to experiencing a dental emergency. In some cases, dental emergencies are preventable.
Visiting our DC dental office for routine dental exams will reduce the risk of a sudden emergency visit as a result of deteriorating oral health. During routine dental exams, Dr. Deckard can assess the condition of the teeth and address any developing oral health concerns. Taking care of any problems during the early stages will prevent them from progressing into a more advanced issues. Dr. Deckard can create a treatment plan tailored to meet your oral health needs.
Taking preventive measures to encourage healthy teeth and gums can help reduce your risk of experiencing certain types of dental emergencies.
Try to incorporate these key tips to reduce your risk of experiencing a dental emergency:
- Wear a mouthguard during physical activity and sports. A custom-designed mouthguard can act as a protective barrier between outside forces and your teeth and gums.
- Schedule routine dental exams and screenings. Regular dental exams allow Dr. Deckard to diagnose and treat any developing oral health concerns.
- Develop and maintain a healthy oral hygiene routine. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing can help reduce plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth and gums.
FAQs
How do I know if I’m experiencing a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is an event that requires immediate attention. Examples of this include having a tooth or restoration knocked out or severely broken, extreme tooth pain, or trauma to the teeth.
What happens if I don’t get emergency dental care?
Depending on the dental emergency, there can be extreme consequences for avoiding dental care. For instance, if you have an abscess that a dentist has not treated, it can lead to a severe infection throughout the entire body and lead to sepsis. Pain and other issues can lead to issues eating and getting the nutrients you need.
Should I try to treat a dental emergency at home?
You should absolutely not try to take care of a dental emergency on your own. Trying to replace a knocked-out tooth or pop an abscess can actually introduce more bacteria into your mouth. This can make your dental emergency a lot worse than it was before attempts to treat it. Warm salt water rinses and over-the-counter pain medication can help you until your appointment.
Should I go to the ER for tooth pain?
Severe tooth pain may require immediate dental attention. If you are experiencing intense pain, swelling, or bleeding, it is best to seek emergency dental care. While the ER can provide temporary pain relief and antibiotics, you should see a dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment of dental problems. If you cannot reach a dentist, going to the ER may be necessary.
Do emergency dentists take insurance?
Emergency dentists may or may not accept dental insurance. It depends on the specific dentist and their practice policies. Some emergency dentists accept all types of insurance, while others may only accept specific plans. Check with your insurance provider to understand what dental services they cover under your plan. Also, inquire about any out-of-pocket expenses. If you don’t have dental insurance, some emergency dentists may offer payment plans or other financing options.
What is the most common dental emergency?
The most common dental emergency is a toothache. Toothaches come from many factors, including cavities, gum disease, tooth fractures, or infection. Dental emergencies can also include chipped or broken teeth, knocked-out teeth, and objects lodged between teeth. You should treat any dental issue that causes severe pain, swelling, or bleeding as a dental emergency. If you experience any of these issues, you should see a dentist as soon as possible.