(410) 939-5800
Quick, Efficient Emergency Dentistry Near You
When a severe toothache strikes or a sudden injury leaves you with a broken tooth, every moment counts. The intense pain and worry that accompany a dental crisis demand swift action. At Family Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry, we understand the urgency and stress of these unexpected situations.
That’s why Dr. Grubb, a top dentist in Havre de Grace, and our compassionate team are dedicated to providing fast, effective emergency dental care when you need it most in Havre de Grace, MD. Don’t hesitate or endure the pain; call us for urgent care immediately at (410) 939-5800. We prioritize your urgent needs and are here to help patients across the area, including those from Aberdeen, Bel Air, and Elkton.
Why Choose Our Local Havre de Grace Office for Dental Emergencies?
When a dental emergency disrupts your life, the last thing you want is the hassle of driving far or dealing with an impersonal practice. Family Implant & Reconstructive Dentistry is your dedicated resource for urgent dental care right here in Havre de Grace.
Choosing Dr. Grubb and our local dental team for your unexpected dental needs means selecting prompt, compassionate, and precise care when you need it most. Call us the moment you suspect you need urgent dental care.
What is Emergency Dentistry?
Emergency dentistry is a field of dental practice focused on the immediate diagnosis and treatment of urgent oral health issues. These are conditions that involve severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, trauma, or infection that, if left untreated, could lead to serious complications, permanent tooth loss, or systemic health problems.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency or you’re unsure, contact our Havre de Grace, MD emergency dentist at (410) 939-5800. If you’re worried about the costs of emergency dental services, our team will explain your options and go over your dental insurance.
Common Dental Emergencies
While any problem causing significant discomfort should be addressed quickly, here are the most frequent situations that necessitate seeking urgent dental care:
- Severe Toothache: Persistent, throbbing pain that doesn’t subside with over-the-counter pain medication. This often indicates a deep infection or irreversible nerve damage within the tooth pulp.
- Knocked-Out Tooth (Avulsion): A tooth that has been completely displaced from its socket due to trauma. Immediate action is critical for successful replantation. If reinserting a knocked-out tooth is not possible, store the tooth in a container of milk, in your own saliva, or in a tooth preservation kit.
- Cracked, Chipped, or Broken Tooth: Damage severe enough to expose the tooth’s sensitive inner layers or cause pain when chewing, potentially leading to infection.
- Dental Abscess or Swelling: A collection of pus caused by a severe bacterial infection, often at the root of a tooth or in the gums. Swelling in the face, jaw, or neck requires immediate attention, as the infection can spread.
- Lost Dental Filling or Crown: While sometimes manageable, a lost restoration leaves the tooth structure vulnerable to sensitivity, pain, and rapid decay or fracture.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Traumatic cuts, lacerations, or tears to the lips, cheeks, gums, or tongue that result in heavy or prolonged bleeding.
Steps to Take During a Dental Emergency
Knowing what to do immediately following a dental injury can significantly improve the outcome and reduce discomfort until you reach the dental office. Rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area and apply a cold compress to your cheek to reduce swelling during a dental emergency.
| Emergency Situation | Immediate Steps to Take |
| Severe Toothache | 1. Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm salt water. 2. Gently floss to remove any food debris that may be caught. 3. Apply a cold compress to your cheek externally to reduce swelling and pain. Do not place aspirin directly on the tooth or gums. |
| Knocked-Out Tooth | 1. Call the dentist immediately. 2. Handle the tooth only by the crown (the chewing surface), avoiding the root. 3. If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse it with water (do not scrub). 4. If possible, try to gently reinsert the tooth into its socket. 5. If reinsertion isn’t possible, keep the tooth moist by placing it in a container of milk or next to your cheek. |
| Broken/Chipped Tooth | 1. Rinse your mouth with warm water. 2. Apply a cold compress to your face to limit swelling. 3. If the edge is sharp, cover it with dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum to protect your tongue and cheek. |
| Lost Filling/Crown | 1. If you have the crown, try to temporarily re-seat it using dental adhesive (found at a pharmacy), toothpaste, or a dab of sugar-free chewing gum. 2. Call your dental office to schedule an appointment. |
| Bleeding from Tissue Injury | 1. Rinse your mouth gently. 2. Apply firm, constant pressure to the wound using a piece of sterile gauze or a clean cloth for 15-20 minutes. 3. If bleeding is heavy or does not stop after 20 minutes, seek assistance immediately. |
| Abscess/Swelling | 1. Call the dental office immediately, as this indicates infection. 2. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to draw the infection toward the surface. 3. Apply a cold compress externally. Do not apply heat. |
What to Expect at an Emergency Dental Visit
During an emergency dental visit, the dentist will assess the situation, diagnose the problem, and recommend the most suitable treatment plan. The exact procedures may vary depending on the specific dental emergency, but generally, the following steps may be involved:
- Dental Examination: Our Havre de Grace, MD emergency dentists will examine your teeth, gums, and affected areas to determine the extent of the problem.
- Diagnostic Tests: X-rays or other diagnostic tests may be conducted to evaluate the condition and identify any underlying issues.
- Pain Management: Immediate measures will be taken to alleviate pain and provide temporary relief, such as dental anesthesia or pain medication.
- Treatment Recommendations: Based on the diagnosis, the dentist will discuss the treatment options and recommend the most appropriate course of action.
- Emergency Treatment: The dentist may perform emergency procedures, such as tooth extraction, dental restoration, or root canal treatment, depending on the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my issue considered a true dental emergency, or can I wait?
What if my emergency happens after your regular business hours?
What is the process for a same-day emergency appointment?
How much will an emergency dental visit cost without dental insurance?
Is my issue considered a true dental emergency, or can I wait?
A dental emergency is typically characterized by severe, unmanageable pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or any injury that puts your tooth at risk of permanent loss or serious infection (like a dental abscess). If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or if you have a knocked-out tooth, you should seek immediate care. For minor chips or dull aches, you can usually wait for a routine appointment.
What if my emergency happens after your regular business hours?
If you experience a dental emergency outside of our normal operating hours, please call our main office line at (410) 939-5800. Our office has a clear protocol for after-hours calls, providing you with guidance and instructions on how to reach Dr. Grubb or the appropriate emergency care service to manage your pain until we can see you in the office. If you experience serious issues like severe facial swelling, uncontrollable bleeding, or jaw trauma, go to the emergency room or call 911, as it may be life-threatening.
What is the process for a same-day emergency appointment?
When you call with a dental crisis, we will ask a few key questions to understand the severity of your situation. We then work immediately to find an opening in our schedule to see you as quickly as possible, often the same day. Upon arrival, our first goal is to relieve your pain, followed by a focused exam and diagnosis by Dr. Grubb to determine the necessary emergency dental treatment and any follow-up appointment you may need.
How much will an emergency dental visit cost without dental insurance?
The cost of an emergency visit varies widely based on the specific treatment required. Simple procedures like a temporary filling are less costly than a root canal or emergency tooth extraction. We recommend calling our office to discuss your condition and available financial options before your visit. Dental insurance usually reduces the total cost of emergency dental care.
Credentials
Skilled Dental Care Near You When You Need It Most
Agonizing severe tooth pain, swelling, or a sudden injury can bring your life to a standstill, causing anxiety and deep worry about your health. No one should have to endure that kind of stress. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, do not delay—your oral health and comfort are too important to wait. Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief for dental emergencies. Dr. Grubb and our compassionate team are here to provide immediate relief and necessary treatment to stabilize your smile.
Don’t spend another moment in pain. Call our Havre de Grace dental practice at (410) 939-5800. We are ready to help patients from Havre de Grace and our neighbors in Aberdeen, Bel Air, and Elkton find fast, restorative care.