Dental emergencies can be both painful and frightening. However, some patients hold back from getting the care they need because the idea of visiting a dentist makes them a little apprehensive. They may wonder, “Will my dental procedure be painful? What exactly is my dentist going to do? Should I wait and see if my problem goes away on its own?” Dr. Robert Bryce, an experienced emergency dentist in Potomac Falls and Sterling, is here to discuss some common dental emergencies, how he might treat them, and why seeking prompt care is so important.
Chipped or Broken Tooth
If Dr. Bryce determines that the chip out of the tooth is not a serious danger to your oral health, the easiest way to fix it may be dental bonding. Bonding is a painless procedure wherein a tooth-colored resin gets molded over the front of a tooth. It restores the tooth’s original shape and protects the soft tissues in the mouth from any jagged edges.
If a chip out of your tooth exposes its vulnerable inner layers, you might require root canal therapy as well as a crown. If Dr. Bryce recommends root canal therapy, there is no need for alarm. Thanks to modern techniques and anesthesia, the procedure is actually much more comfortable than most people anticipate!
Severe Toothache
A severe toothache is often the result of a serious infection that has invaded the innermost layer of a tooth—its pulp. Without treatment, the infection can spread into surrounding tissues and cause significant damage. It might even lead to systemic illness. Often, the best way to treat these situations is via root canal therapy and antibiotics.
In some cases, however, extraction is the best course of action. Dr. Bryce will make sure you are comfortable before he gently removes the tooth. He may also prescribe antibiotics and talk to you about options for future tooth replacement, such as a dental implant or fixed bridge.
Fully or Partially Dislodged Tooth
Dr. Bryce wants to save your tooth! Hence, it is imperative that you seek treatment ASAP, preferably within an hour or so of the incident that damaged the tooth. After assessing the damage, Dr. Bryce might determine that it is possible to splint the tooth back into place. If it is not possible, he will just address soft tissue damage in the area and inform you about your tooth replacement options.
The Importance of Treatment
Teeth do not have the ability to heal themselves after they suffer serious damage. Hence, the longer you wait for treatment, the worse your dental emergency will become. Seeking prompt care is the best way to find pain relief and get your oral health back on track. And don’t worry about what you will experience during your procedure — you can expect comfortable, empathetic treatment throughout your entire appointment.
About the Author
Dr. Robert Bryce is a highly accomplished general, restorative, and emergency dentist near Potomac Falls and Sterling. He uses his extensive training, advanced technology, and in some cases, sedation to provide conservative, effective, and comfortable treatment for emergency patients. If you have an urgent oral health concern, contact our office right away at 571-223-6221.