Emergency Dentistry for Wisdom Teeth in Bethesda, MD

Handling Wisdom Teeth-Related Emergencies

Wisdom teeth can be a blessing if they emerge properly, but more often than not, they cause complications that require emergency dentistry services. If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, or other troubling symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate treatment from an emergency dentist in Bethesda, MD. 

At our Bethesda dental practice, we specialize in handling wisdom teeth emergencies, providing same-day appointments and personalized care to patients in Bethesda, Rockville, Chevy Chase, and beyond.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last set of teeth to develop, typically emerging in your late teens or early twenties. While some people have no issues with their wisdom teeth, others face complications like impacted wisdom teeth, infections, or tooth decay. These problems can lead to dental emergencies, making it essential to monitor their development through regular X-rays and dental check-ups.

Symptoms of Wisdom Teeth Emergencies

Recognizing the signs of a dental emergency can help you act quickly and avoid further complications. Look out for these symptoms:

• Severe tooth pain or toothache
• Swelling in the gums, jaw, or face
• Difficulty opening your mouth or chewing
• Bad breath or a foul taste in your mouth (signs of an infected tooth)
• Headaches or earaches
• Bleeding or pus around the wisdom teeth

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t wait—contact our Bethesda dental office at (301) 760-4451 for urgent dental care.

Common Wisdom Teeth Emergencies

Here are some common reasons why you’re dealing with a wisdom teeth emergency:

• Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When a wisdom tooth doesn’t fully emerge, it can become trapped in the jawbone or gums, causing severe pain and swelling.
• Pericoronitis: This condition occurs when the gum tissue around a partially erupted wisdom tooth becomes inflamed, leading to discomfort and infection.
• Tooth Decay: Wisdom teeth are harder to clean, making them prone to cavities and cracked teeth.
• Infections: An infected wisdom tooth can cause fever, swelling, and even spread to other areas of the mouth or jaw.
• Cysts or Tumors: Impacted wisdom teeth can lead to cysts or tumors, damaging surrounding teeth and bone.

What to Expect During an Emergency Visit

Facing a dental emergency can be stressful, but knowing what to expect can ease your worries. Here’s how we handle emergency dentistry for wisdom teeth:

1. Examination and Diagnosis: Dr. Asante will perform a thorough exam, including X-rays, to assess the issue.
2. Pain Management: We’ll provide immediate relief through local anesthetic, painkillers, or other treatments.
3. Treatment Options: Depending on the issue, we may recommend wisdom teeth removal, root canal therapy, or antibiotics to treat infections.
4. Follow-Up Care: After treatment, we’ll guide you on post-extraction care, such as using an ice pack to reduce swelling or a wet tea bag to stop bleeding.

How to Prevent Wisdom Teeth Emergencies

While not all wisdom teeth problems can be avoided, these steps can help reduce your risk:

• Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist every six months to monitor your wisdom teeth.
• Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush, floss, and rinse daily to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
• Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods if your wisdom teeth are erupting to avoid irritation.
• Avoid Smoking: Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Proactive Removal: If your dentist recommends wisdom teeth extraction, consider it to prevent future emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is wisdom tooth pain a dental emergency?

Yes, especially if it’s severe or accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty opening your mouth. These could indicate impacted wisdom teeth or an infection.

Can I go to the hospital for an impacted wisdom tooth?

While hospitals can handle critical medical emergencies, impacted wisdom teeth are best treated by an oral surgeon or emergency dentist. Contact our Bethesda office for same-day appointments.

What should I do if my wisdom tooth is infected?

Seek immediate treatment to prevent the infection from spreading. We offer urgent dental care for infected teeth, including extractions and antibiotics.

Don’t Wait—Get Emergency Dental Care in Bethesda, MD

Ignoring wisdom teeth problems can lead to severe complications, including abscesses, jaw damage, and chronic pain. If you’re experiencing dental pain or other symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out. Dr. Asante and her team are here to provide immediate attention and personalized care.

Call us today at (301) 760-4451 to schedule your dental emergency appointment. We serve patients in Bethesda, Rockville, Chevy Chase, and surrounding areas, ensuring you receive the best emergency dental care for your wisdom teeth.