What to do in a dental emergency in Maryland

For a broken tooth, a lost filling or bad tooth pain, call your dentist. The American Dental Association says most dentists set aside time for emergencies.

If you do not have a dentist, look for an office that says it sees same-day emergencies. The list below comes from what offices say on their own websites, so call before you go.

For an adult tooth that has been knocked out, the American Dental Association says:

• Keep it moist.
• If you can, put it back in the socket without touching the root.
• If it will not go back, hold it between your cheek and gum, or put it in milk or a tooth-preservation product with the ADA Seal.
• Get to a dentist right away.

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if you have:

• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Swelling that is spreading quickly

Also go to the ER if your dentist’s office is closed and you cannot reach anyone, and the problem cannot wait.

Some Maryland offices say they answer emergency calls after hours, and some are open on weekends. Our list of dentists open on Saturdays can help if a problem starts at the end of the week.