Emergency dentistry is crucial for addressing unexpected dental problems. Dr. John Slate offers comprehensive emergency dental services in our Washington, DC, dentist office, and our team makes every effort to see you in a timely manner based on your emergency care needs.
Emergency dentistry plays a vital role in maintaining dental health. Our team is dedicated to providing immediate care when considered necessary for a dental emergency. Don’t hesitate to seek treatment when a dental emergency arises. Prompt action can make all the difference in preventing more damage to the teeth and gums after trauma or infection. Emergency dental care is part of the general dental care services we provide to the public.
Common Dental Emergencies in Washington, DC
Dental emergencies can range from minor issues to severe problems.
Toothaches
A toothache might seem like a small problem, but it can be a sign of something worse, like an infection or decay. You can develop a dental abscess if the infection spreads from your tooth.
Contact our office if the pain is severe or lasts more than a day. At home, you can take pain medication and use a cold compress. But don’t wait for treatment.
Cracked or Broken Teeth
Teeth can crack or break from accidents, falls, or even biting down on something hard. Even if it doesn’t hurt right away, a damaged tooth can lead to bigger problems if not treated. Avoid biting with the injured tooth. Also don’t try to fix the toth damage on your own. Call Dr. Slate for treatment.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth gets knocked out, time is critical. Pick up the tooth by the crown (not the root) and rinse it gently in water. You can try to gently place the tooth back in its socket and bite down. If this doesn’t work, call our dental office. Bring the tooth with you in a cup of milk to keep it moist. We may be able to save the tooth if you see our dentist immediately.
Lost Fillings or Crowns
Fillings and crowns protect weak or damaged teeth. If one falls out, the tooth can become sensitive or painful. We can replace it to prevent further damage.
Delaying treatment for a dental emergency can lead to more significant issues and higher costs. Immediate care can help prevent complications and reduce pain.
Available Emergency Dental Treatments
Dr. Slate offers a range of emergency dentistry treatments in Washington, DC:
Toothache
A toothache can have different causes, and the treatment depends on how severe the problem is. If the pain is from a small cavity or minor crack, a filling can repair the tooth and stop further decay.
We may recommend Root Canal therapy if the tooth is badly infected or the inner pulp is damaged. A root canal can remove the infection and save your tooth.
But in cases where the tooth is too damaged to save, removing it may be the best option to prevent further problems.
Cracked or Broken Teeth
A cracked or broken tooth can be painful and needs quick care to avoid infection or more damage. One of the strongest treatments for tooth damage is a crown. A crown is a strong cap that fits over the damaged tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance.
We may recommend bonding if you have a small chip or crack, but that isn;t an emergency. While you can wait to treat a small area of damage, we recommend scheduling a visit sooner than later.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If a tooth gets knocked out, acting fast is crucial. If the tooth is handled carefully and placed back in the socket quickly, a dentist may be able to save it. If not, other options like dental implants or bridges can replace the missing tooth later.
Lost Fillings or Crowns
Losing a filling or crown can leave your tooth exposed and sensitive. We can clean the area and put in a new filling or reattach (or replace) the crown to protect the tooth.
Your Emergency Dental Plan
It’s important that when patients experience a dental emergency, which can include cosmetic “emergencies” or true emergencies where a tooth is in jeopardy, the emergency treatment plan fits into an overall comprehensive plan. We will often discuss how immediate treatments related to the emergency will tie into their overall comprehensive care. Our goal is to help you restore a lasting and healthy smile.
The cost of emergency dental care can be a concern, but immediate treatment is essential. Many dental insurance plans cover emergency services, but we advise you to consult with your carrier to understand covered costs. Slate Dental provides various payment and insurance options to help manage costs.
How to Prevent Dental Emergencies
No one wants to deal with a sudden tooth problem, but the good news is you can prevent some dental emergencies. Here’s how to protect your teeth and gums:
Keep Up With Dental Checkups
Seeing Dr. Slate every six months helps catch small problems before they turn into big ones. Regular cleanings remove harmful plaque, and dental exams can spot weak spots in your teeth that might need attention.
Brush and Floss Daily
We recommend that you brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste. Floss once a day to clean between teeth before you brush. You should also use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid gum damage.
Break Bad Habits
Your teeth aren’t tools! Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels. Don’t use teeth to open packages or bottles. Also avoid biting your nails because can chip or crack your teeth.
Protect Your Smile During Sports
Wear a custom-fitted mouthguard if you play contact sports. We recommend custom sports mouthguards for patients of all ages. You could injure your gums or lose a tooth from a hit to the mouth or face.
Get Urgent Dental Care Today
Dr. Slate provides top-notch emergency dentistry services in Washington, DC, and surrounding areas. His experienced team is equipped to handle dental emergencies. For immediate assistance, contact Dr. Slate’s office directly
Call (425) 584-3751 in case of a dental emergency. Request an appointment online you don’t need emergency care but have a current dental concern.