Emergency Dentistry
Smiling woman giving a thumbs-up at a dental clinic in Ellicott City

We had a dental emergency and they brought us in to be seen. Dentist completed a really thorough exam and identified the scope of the problem. Very knowledgeable!

~Jane Wessely

After Hours Emergencies Only

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Top Reasons to Choose Our Dental Services


Around-the-Clock Emergency Care
Around-the-Clock Emergency Care

Around-the-Clock Emergency Care

Get 24/7 urgent dental care when you need it most. Our team is always here to provide immediate relief and expert attention for any dental emergency.


Immediate, Same-Day Appointments
Immediate, Same-Day Appointments

Immediate, Same-Day Appointments

Don’t suffer in pain—get fast relief with our same-day appointments for dental emergencies. We prioritize quick, effective care to have you feeling better as soon as possible!


Flexible Insurance & Financing Options
Flexible Insurance & Financing Options

Flexible Insurance & Financing Options

We accept a wide range of insurance plans and offer flexible financing options to make quality dental care affordable for every budget.


Advanced Dental Technology for Precise Care
Advanced Dental Technology for Precise Care

Advanced Dental Technology for Precise Care

Our clinic features advanced technology for top-quality care, including intraoral scanners for 3D imaging, intraoral cameras for clear visibility, CBCT scans for precise diagnostics, and safer, clearer digital X-rays.

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24/7 Emergency Dental Services in Ellicott City, MD

Preferred Dental is well-equipped to handle dental emergencies promptly and has expertise in Ellicott City. Recognizing the urgent need for immediate and effective treatment, our dental clinic provides a reliable place for all dental crises. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, an injury, or a lost filling, our skilled Ellicott City dentist team is ready to offer the necessary care without delay. Ensuring quick access to emergency care is crucial, and we are here to assist you when you need it most.

Types of Dental Trauma

Dental emergencies vary greatly, but common types include tooth fractures, avulsions (complete displacement), and luxations (partial displacement). Each situation demands a specific response; for example, avulsed teeth must be kept moist and reinserted immediately.

What to Do in Case of Dental Trauma

If you experience a dental emergency, especially a knocked-out tooth, time is of the essence. The first step is to seek emergency dental care as soon as possible. A knocked-out tooth typically has the best chance of being saved if it is replaced within 1-2 hours. While waiting to see a dentist:

  • Handle the tooth by the crown (the part you chew with), not the root.
  • If possible, gently rinse the tooth without scrubbing or removing any attached tissue.
  • Try to place the tooth back into its socket, or keep it moist in milk, saline, or inside your cheek until you reach the dental office

Prompt action and proper handling greatly increase the likelihood of saving the tooth and minimizing long-term complications. As emergency dentists near me, our practice is equipped to address these traumatic injuries with the necessary urgency and care. Immediate treatment relieves pain and significantly improves the prognosis for saving injured or displaced teeth.

Managing Infections in Emergency Dentistry in Ellicott City, MD

Infections such as dental caries and abscesses are among the most common reasons patients seek emergency dental care. At Preferred Dental, we emphasize treating these infections promptly to prevent further complications. Our treatment plans often involve clearing the infection, providing appropriate antibiotic therapy, and, when necessary, performing root canal treatments. As a same-day dental office in Ellicott City, MD, we ensure that patients receive efficient and effective treatment to alleviate symptoms and address the cause of their discomfort.

Pain Management and Dental First Aid

Effective pain management is a critical facet of emergency dentistry. Our clinic provides professional guidance on managing dental pain until you receive proper care. This includes recommendations for over-the-counter pain relievers, techniques for reducing swelling, and methods to remedy minor dental issues at home temporarily. For more severe cases, our same-day clinic near me is prepared to offer immediate in-office interventions to manage pain and stabilize dental health.

For relief at home, you can take ibuprofen (Motrin) or naproxen (Advil) to ease pain and discomfort. It’s best to avoid aspirin, as it can interfere with proper blood clotting. Applying an ice pack externally to the affected area can also help reduce pain and swelling until you are able to see a dentist. These first aid steps may provide temporary comfort, but prompt professional evaluation remains essential for lasting relief and to address the underlying issue.

When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

It’s vital to know when to seek immediate dental attention to prevent complications or permanent damage. Signs that require emergency dental care include severe toothache, persistent bleeding, jaw injuries, or noticeable swelling in the mouth or facial area. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to contact a dental office near me, like Preferred Dental, as quickly as possible.

Should You Visit the Hospital or ER for a Dental Emergency?

In most cases, the best place to seek care for dental emergencies is with an emergency dentist rather than a hospital emergency room. While dental issues such as toothaches, minor fractures, and oral lacerations can be incredibly uncomfortable and sometimes alarming, they rarely require hospital intervention. Emergency rooms are not equipped to handle most dental conditions, and you’ll typically be referred to a dental clinic—plus, treatment at the ER is often much more costly.

However, your judgment is important. There are certain situations where immediate medical attention at a hospital or ER is warranted, including:

  • Severe swelling that affects your ability to breathe or swallow
  • Major trauma or suspected fractures to your jaw
  • Unstoppable bleeding from the mouth

If your symptoms suggest a life-threatening emergency—such as difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, or major facial injuries—do not hesitate to visit the nearest ER or call 911. For all other urgent dental needs, reaching out to an emergency dentist in Ellicott City, MD, ensures effective and timely care at a more affordable cost.

We provide same-day appointments in Ellicott City, MD, to address urgent needs and ensure you receive the quickest relief and care possible. We provide same-day appointments in Ellicott City, MD, to address urgent needs and ensure you receive the quickest relief and care possible.

Hospital vs. Dentist: When Should You Go to the ER?

While most dental emergencies are best managed by a dental professional, there are situations where a hospital emergency room is the safest option. Typically, issues like a cracked tooth, mild oral cuts, or toothaches can be addressed directly by an emergency dentist, saving you valuable time and cost. However, there are rare but serious cases where immediate hospital care is necessary.

Seek emergency care at a hospital or ER if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing due to severe facial or oral swelling
  • Significant trauma to the jaw, such as a suspected fracture
  • Uncontrolled bleeding in your mouth that does not slow or stop

If your symptoms make you suspect your condition could be life-threatening, heading directly to the nearest hospital emergency room is your best course of action. For all other urgent dental problems, reaching out to your local emergency dentist in Ellicott City will ensure you receive specialized and efficient care tailored to dental issues.

Contact Us Today!

If you’re facing a dental emergency in Ellicott City, don’t wait. Contact Preferred Dental immediately. Our dedicated team is ready to provide critical care when you need it the most. We offer same-day services to manage dental emergencies efficiently, ensuring you return to your daily life with minimal discomfort. Call us today or visit our office; we are here to help you manage any dental crisis with expertise and compassion.

Emergency Dental Tips While You Wait

Until you reach our office:

  • Keep knocked-out teeth moist in milk or saliva
  • Apply a cold compress for swelling
  • Rinse with warm salt water
  • Take over-the-counter pain medication as directed
  • Avoid extremely hot or cold foods

Insurance and Payment Options

We work with most major insurance providers and offer flexible payment plans for emergency dental care. Don’t let financial concerns delay your treatment – your health comes first.

Areas We Serve for Emergency Dental Care

Preferred Dental proudly provides prompt emergency dental care not only to Ellicott City residents, but also to our neighbors in nearby communities. If you’re located in areas like Font Hill, Dunloggin, Normandy, Autumn Hill, or Columbia, you can rely on our same-day services and expert team. We are committed to making emergency dental visits accessible for families and individuals throughout these surrounding neighborhoods, ensuring that help is always close by when urgent care is needed.

Contact Us Now!

Don’t let a dental emergency ruin your day – get the fast, expert care you need at Preferred Dental in Ellicott City. Call [Phone Number] anytime for 24/7 emergency services, same-day appointments, and immediate relief.

410-418-8485

FAQs

How do I prevent an infection from spreading before my dental appointment?

To prevent an infection from worsening before your visit, keep the area clean by gently cleaning it with warm salt water several times a day. Avoid irritants like spicy foods and tobacco. If you’re concerned about the infection, contact Preferred Dental in Ellicott City for personalized advice to keep you comfortable until your appointment.

What should I do if I lose my dental crown while traveling?

If you lose a crown while away, keep it safe and avoid chewing on the exposed tooth. You can temporarily reattach the crown using dental cement from a pharmacy. Once you’re back, schedule an appointment with Preferred Dental in Ellicott City to ensure your crown is securely replaced.

When should I seek emergency dental care?

Find immediate dental care if you experience severe pain, uncontrollable bleeding, or swelling that affects breathing. Preferred Dental offers emergency appointments in Ellicott City to address urgent needs—call us right away if you’re unsure.

Will my insurance cover emergency dental services?

Many dental insurance plans cover emergencies, but specifics vary. At Preferred Dental, we work with you to understand your coverage options and ensure you get the care you need. Contact us, and our team can help clarify your insurance details.

How do I know if I need an emergency tooth extraction?

Signs you may need an emergency extraction include severe pain, swelling, or damage that cannot be treated otherwise. Our dentists at Preferred Dental will assess your situation to recommend the best option for relief and recovery.

What should I do if I have a knocked-out tooth?

Handle a knocked-out tooth by the crown (top), rinse it carefully, and try to place it back in its socket. If that’s not possible, keep it moist in milk or a saline solution. Contact Preferred Dental immediately for guidance, as quick action improves the possibility of saving the tooth.

Does my dental insurance cover emergency treatment?

Emergency coverage varies by policy. Our team at Preferred Dental can assist you in navigating your insurance to help you understand your benefits. Give us a call, and we’ll walk you through your options.

What should I do for a severe toothache until I can see a dentist?

For relief from a severe toothache, rinse with warm salt water, put a cold compress, and use over-the-counter pain relief as directed. Contact Preferred Dental to schedule an appointment so we can effectively treat the cause of your pain.

What should I do for a cracked or chipped tooth?

Clean your mouth using warm water, apply a cold compress if there’s swelling, and avoid using the affected side to chew. Call Preferred Dental in Ellicott City to schedule a prompt appointment and prevent further damage.

What should I do if I experience swelling or an infection in my mouth?

Swelling or infection can be serious and may require antibiotics or other treatment. Rinse with warm salt water, but avoid placing heat on the area. Reach out to Preferred Dental for an urgent appointment to address the infection before it worsens.

Do emergency dentists handle infections or abscesses?

Yes, emergency dentists are equipped to treat infections and abscesses. At Preferred Dental, we can provide immediate care for oral infections to reduce pain and prevent further complications. Call us if you need immediate attention.

Can I get an emergency tooth extraction?

If a tooth extraction is necessary to relieve severe pain or prevent further issues, Preferred Dental offers emergency extraction services. Contact us for an assessment to determine if an extraction is the best solution.

What should I do if I break a tooth but don't feel pain?

Even if it’s not painful, a broken tooth is susceptible to further damage. Rinse your mouth gently and avoid chewing on that side. Schedule an appointment with Preferred Dental to get it checked and prevent future issues.

Can I get a temporary fix if I can't afford full treatment?

Yes, Preferred Dental can provide temporary solutions to relieve pain and protect the affected area until a permanent treatment plan fits your budget. Contact us to discuss options that work for you.

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