Dental issues can sometimes appear minor at first, but certain symptoms should never be ignored. Oral health problems can progress rapidly, and when pain or injury strikes, knowing when to seek emergency dental care can make the difference between saving or losing a tooth. Emergency dentistry exists to handle urgent dental situations that require immediate attention to relieve pain, prevent infection, and preserve your smile.

Severe or Persistent Tooth Pain

A mild toothache can often wait for a regular dental appointment, but if the pain is sharp, throbbing, or constant, it may signal something more serious. Severe tooth pain is often a sign of an infection deep within the tooth, possibly involving the nerve or pulp. Without prompt treatment, the infection can spread to surrounding tissues or even to other parts of the body. Emergency dental care could relieve pain quickly and prevent further complications.

Broken, Cracked, or Chipped Teeth

Accidents happen, whether it’s from a sports injury, biting something hard, or a sudden fall. While minor chips may not always require immediate care, a broken or fractured tooth should be treated as a dental emergency. A fracture that reaches the inner layers of the tooth can expose nerves and blood vessels, causing intense pain and increasing the risk of infection. Seeing an emergency dentist right away often helps preserve the damaged tooth and restore its function.

Knocked-Out Teeth

Few dental emergencies are as time-sensitive as a knocked-out tooth. If a tooth is completely dislodged, immediate treatment is critical. The sooner you reach a dentist, ideally within 30 to 60 minutes, the better the chances of successfully reimplanting the tooth. Handle the tooth carefully by the crown (not the root), rinse it gently if dirty, and try to keep it moist until you reach the dentist’s office.

Swelling or Abscessed Gums

Swelling around the gums or jaw can be a sign of a serious infection, such as a dental abscess. An abscess forms when bacteria invade the soft tissue or bone surrounding a tooth, leading to pus buildup and inflammation. Symptoms can include severe pain, swelling, fever, or even difficulty swallowing. Left untreated, an abscess can spread infection throughout the body and become life-threatening. Emergency dentistry could drain the abscess, control the infection, and address the underlying cause.

Loose or Dislodged Dental Restorations

Crowns, fillings, and bridges are designed to protect and restore teeth, but they can sometimes come loose or fall out. When that happens, the exposed tooth underneath becomes vulnerable to sensitivity, decay, or damage. Emergency dental treatment can often replace or temporarily secure the restoration, preventing further harm and discomfort until a permanent fix is made.

Bleeding That Won’t Stop

It’s normal to experience a little bleeding after brushing too hard or flossing, but bleeding that doesn’t stop could indicate a more serious problem. Persistent bleeding following an injury or dental procedure may point to trauma or gum disease. If bleeding is accompanied by swelling, pain, or discoloration, it’s important to contact an emergency dentist immediately to identify and treat the cause.

Facial Trauma and Jaw Pain

Any impact to the mouth or jaw that results in swelling, difficulty opening your mouth, or misalignment of teeth should be evaluated urgently. Fractures or dislocations can cause lasting damage if not treated promptly. An emergency dentist can assess the injury, stabilize the area, and refer you for further care if needed.

Emergency Dentistry in Baltimore, MD

At Horizon Family Dental Care, your oral health is our top priority. We always strive to see emergency dental patients as soon as possible to avoid any further complications. If you experience server pain, bleeding, or other damage, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us right away to schedule your appointment and get the treatment you need.