Tooth pain can come on slowly or hit you all at once—but when it’s severe, it can stop everything. It’s more than just an inconvenience. It can interfere with eating, sleeping, and even thinking clearly. If you’re dealing with unbearable tooth pain, what to do might not feel obvious in the moment. That’s where knowing your options, including the difference between a general dentist and an endodontist, really matters.
What Causes Intense Tooth Pain?
Severe tooth pain often means something serious is happening beneath the surface. It could be caused by a deep cavity, a cracked tooth, or gum infection. Most commonly, it’s an infected tooth nerve or abscess. Pain like this doesn’t usually go away on its own. It’s your body’s way of signaling that urgent attention is needed.
Unbearable Tooth Pain: What to Do at Home First
If you can’t get to the dentist right away, there are a few things you can try at home to manage the pain temporarily. Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to reduce inflammation and clean the area. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to ease discomfort. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can also help reduce swelling and numb the pain. But keep in mind, these are only temporary fixes. The real solution is seeing a dental professional as soon as possible.
When Emergency Dental Care Is Needed
Some signs mean you shouldn’t wait for a regular appointment. If your pain is sharp, throbbing, or radiating to your jaw or ear, it could be a sign of a serious infection. Swelling in your face or neck, fever, or difficulty swallowing are also red flags. These symptoms mean it’s time to call for emergency dental care.
At Hackley DDS, our team offers same-day emergency appointments when possible. During emergency care, we’ll examine your tooth, take X-rays if needed, and work quickly to reduce pain and treat the root cause. Sometimes that means a filling or crown—but in more severe cases, it might mean a root canal.
Unbearable Tooth Pain What to Do: Dentist vs. Endodontist
Not sure who to call first? Many people don’t know the difference between a general dentist and an endodontist. A general dentist handles most routine care—cleanings, fillings, crowns, and some root canals. But when the issue runs deep, your dentist might refer you to an endodontist.
An endodontist specializes in treating problems that involve the inside of the tooth—especially the tooth pulp and nerves. If you need a root canal or treatment for a tooth that has suffered trauma, an endodontist can offer more advanced tools and techniques. For severe cases, seeing an endodontist may lead to faster relief and better outcomes.
Preventing Future Tooth Pain
While not all toothaches are preventable, many are. Regular brushing and flossing, along with twice-yearly dental checkups, are your best line of defense. Limit sugary foods and drinks, wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth, and don’t ignore small aches—they can become big problems quickly.
If you’ve had a filling or crown come loose, or if a tooth feels more sensitive than usual, call your dentist before it becomes an emergency.
Find Relief with Hackley DDS
Tooth pain doesn’t have to control your day. The team at Hackley DDS is here to provide compassionate care and expert treatment when you need it most. We’re ready to guide you from pain to relief, whether it’s a routine fix or something more complex.
If you’re suffering from unbearable tooth pain, don’t wait another minute—contact us and get the care you deserve.
Dental emergencies can happen anytime, causing pain, discomfort, and stress. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or an oral injury, getting prompt treatment is essential to prevent further complications. That’s where an emergency dentist near Bethesda can help.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires immediate attention to relieve pain, stop bleeding, or prevent further damage. Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe toothaches or infections
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Lost or broken fillings and crowns
- Abscesses or gum infections
- Soft tissue injuries in the mouth
If you experience any of these conditions, seeking care as soon as possible is crucial.
Why Emergency Dentists Are Important
We can ensure that you get immediate care when you need it most. Here’s why emergency dental services matter:
- Pain Relief: Prompt treatment alleviates discomfort and prevents further suffering.
- Prevention of Complications: Untreated dental issues can worsen, leading to infections, tooth loss, or more extensive procedures.
- Preservation of Teeth: Acting quickly after an injury can often save a damaged or knocked-out tooth.
- Convenience and Peace of Mind: Knowing that an emergency dentist is available offers reassurance in unexpected situations.
Where to Find an Emergency Dentist Near Bethesda
When a dental emergency strikes, you need a trusted provider who can offer immediate, high-quality care. The team at Hackley DDS are experienced in handling urgent dental issues with compassion and expertise. Whether it’s a severe toothache or a dental injury, they are here to help restore your oral health quickly and effectively. If you need an emergency dentist near Bethesda, don’t wait! Contact us today for prompt, professional treatment. Our team is ready to provide immediate relief and expert care. Call now to schedule your emergency appointment!
Engaging in sports is a fantastic way to stay active, but it can also increase your risk of dental injuries. In fact, over 600,000 emergency room visits each year are due to sports-related dental injuries. From knocked-out teeth to cracked molars, a sports dental emergency in Rockville can happen in an instant. Protecting your smile starts with understanding these risks and taking preventive measures. Read on to learn more!
The Importance of Mouthguards
A custom-fitted mouthguard is one of the best defenses against dental injuries. These guards are designed to cushion your teeth from impacts. They can reduce the chance of fractures, dislodged teeth, and soft tissue injuries. Your dentist can create a mouthguard tailored specifically for you, ensuring maximum comfort and protection.
Immediate Steps After an Injury
In the event of a sports dental emergency in Rockville, acting quickly is essential. If a tooth gets knocked out, rinse it gently and try placing it back in its socket. If that’s not possible, keep the tooth moist in milk or saliva and seek dental care immediately. Quick action can often save the tooth and prevent further complications.
Ongoing Prevention for Active Families
For families with young athletes, reinforcing oral safety habits is key. Children and teens involved in contact sports should wear their mouthguards consistently, even during practice. Coaches and parents can also benefit from learning basic dental first aid to handle emergencies effectively. By creating a culture of awareness and preparedness, you can protect the smiles of everyone on the team.
Have a Sports Dental Emergency in Rockville? Contact Us Today!
Don’t let an unexpected injury sideline you. If you experience a sports dental emergency in Rockville, contact Hackley DDS right away. We can help you get back in the game safely.
A dental emergency requires immediate care. That’s why we offer urgent dental care in Rockville. Most of these injuries can be serious and lead to further damage if they aren’t treated in a timely manner. Here’s what qualifies as a dental emergency and where to find the best urgent dental care in Rockville.
When to See an Emergency Dentist
A dental emergency is any dental problem that requires immediate attention and care. Not all dental issues are emergencies. If you have pain that won’t go away with medication, bleeding that won’t stop, or broken teeth you need urgent dental care. The following are examples of dental emergencies.
Severe Toothache
One of the most common reasons for a trip to the emergency dentist is a severe toothache. Persistent pain is considered a dental emergency. If you are experiencing pain that doesn’t improve with medication, you need to see an urgent care dentist as soon as possible.
Knocked Out Tooth
Another dental emergency is a knocked out tooth. Accidents happen and sometimes that involves teeth. If you lose a tooth, don’t touch the root. Retrieve it by the crown and rinse is gently with water. If possible, put it back in the socket. In cases where that’s not possible, place it in a small container of milk and see your dentist ASAP. If it is returned to its socket within an hour, there is a greater chance of saving the tooth.
Cracked Tooth
For a badly cracked tooth, save and rinse any broken pieces of the tooth. Apply a cold compress to the outside of the cheek, lip, or mouth near your broken tooth to help with pain and swelling. See your dentist as soon as possible.
Dental Abscess
Finally, dental abscesses need immediate care. Dental abscesses are swollen areas or pimple-like infections around the root of a tooth or between your teeth and gums. This is a serious condition that can damage tissue and surrounding teeth. If it is left untreated, it can cause swelling of the face and jaw or potentially spread to other areas of the body. If you suspect a dental abscess, see your dentist immediately.
Urgent Dental Care in Rockville
If you are experiencing a dental emergency, we are here to help. Please contact Hackley DDS immediately to speak to a specialist. Call (301) 917-3964 between the hours of 9 am and 1 pm or text our emergency line at (301) 602-6068 any time after 1 pm.
Are you afraid of the dentist? Dental anxiety is a common issue for many people in Rockville. If anxiety is preventing you from going to the dentist, there are some things you can do to help cope with your fear. Here are some ways to get the care you need while being considerate of your anxiety.
What is Dental Anxiety?
Do you experience fear, anxiety, or stress in a dental setting? You may have dental anxiety. Needles, drills, or the dental setting can trigger anxiety for many people. However, if dental anxiety is severe, some people may avoid going to the dentist all together. This is classified as a dental phobia.
Signs and Symptoms
People with dental anxiety may experience the following.
- Racing heart
- Sweating
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Visible distress
- Crying
- Withdrawal or using humor/aggression to mask anxiety.
While it is understandable to avoid the things that make us afraid, routine dental care is crucial to your oral health.
What Causes Dental Anxiety and Phobia?
There are many reasons why people may experience dental anxiety in Rockville. This includes:
- A traumatic dental experience or other healthcare experience
- Prior trauma to the neck or head
- Other traumatic experiences include abuse.
- General anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Trust issues
- Fear of loss of control
- Anxiety associated with other conditions like agoraphobia, claustrophobia, or obsessive compulsive disorder.
Anyone can have dental anxiety. Children who have had a bad dental experience can often overcome their fear through proper management of the situation and future support in dental visits. Adults unfortunately tend to remain anxious throughout life.
However, finding a dentist who is sympathetic and understanding of your situation can help you cope with going to the dentist.
Coping with Dental Anxiety in Rockville
There are many ways to cope and manage dental anxiety. An open discussion with your dentist about your triggers can help your provider create a management plan with you. This may include things like:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Weighted blankets
- Distraction like music
- Happy gas
- Oral anxiety medication
- Conscious sedation (IV)
- General anesthesia (for severe cases)
If you are looking for a dentist that is sympathetic and understanding of your dental anxiety, please contact Hackley DDS.
Maintaining oral health is vital for overall well-being. Beyond fostering a radiant smile, good oral hygiene plays a pivotal role in reducing the risk of infections, heart disease, and even cancer, making it an integral aspect of both your and your family’s health and wellness. While you might instinctively consider a pediatric dentist as the ideal choice for your children’s dental care, a family dentist in Rockville MD is equally equipped to provide exceptional oral health services. One of the primary advantages of choosing a family dentist is the convenience it offers. By making just one phone call, you can schedule appointments for the entire family, streamlining the process and minimizing logistical hassles associated with visiting multiple dental practitioners. Let’s delve into more benefits of family dentistry in Rockville MD.
Family Dentistry in Rockville MD
A family dentist is a dental professional who provides care to patients spanning all age groups, ranging from children to adults. Their services encompass a comprehensive range of treatments, including dental checkups, cleanings, examinations, fillings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, and more.
Eliminating Dental Anxiety
Both dental phobia and dental anxiety can lead to the postponement or avoidance of dental care. If any of your family members experience these conditions, scheduling dental checkups together as a family can be beneficial.
Children, in particular, may develop dental anxiety early on, and having a family dentist can aid in overcoming it. When children observe their parents attending checkups or receiving treatment, they gain confidence and become more at ease with the dental experience. Children often mirror the behaviors and attitudes of their parents. By demonstrating the importance of regular dental visits, you establish a lasting impression.
The significant advantage of attending appointments with a family dentist together is that it helps children overcome their fears early on, fostering a lifelong comfort with dental visits.
A Family Dentist is Convenient
The convenience of having a family dentist for your entire household is undeniable. By scheduling one appointment for multiple individuals or the entire family, you streamline your life. Gone are the days of needing to take time off work on various occasions for separate appointments—one for yourself, another for your children at the pediatric dentist, and yet another for your teenagers elsewhere.
Family Dentists Know Your Dental History
One of the key benefits of lifelong family dentistry is the familiarity your dentist will have with your family’s dental history. If there have been past dental conditions, surgeries, allergies, or sensitivities, your dentist will have comprehensive records of these. This enables them to tailor suitable treatments based on your family’s specific dental needs and medical history.
Having a Family Dentist Means a Lasting Relationship
Establishing trust between you and your dentist is essential for several reasons. With trust in place, communication becomes effortless, allowing you to share information openly and honestly. When your dentist is fully informed, they can accurately diagnose symptoms, ensuring that you and your family members receive the appropriate treatment.
Regular and Consistent Services
To uphold the oral health of you and your family members, it’s recommended to schedule visits to your family dentist at least twice a year for checkups and cleanings. With a family dentist, you’ll feel assured about attending these appointments, reducing the likelihood of missing any.
Preventative Care
Family dentists are experts in a wide range of dental fields catering to individuals of all age groups. Since children’s teeth are still developing, they require specialized care. Family dentists provide guidance on preventive measures to maintain optimal dental health for children. Additionally, it’s important to act early if one of your children requires teeth alignment. In fact, it is more beneficial in children compared to adults.
Emergency Dental Services
In times of urgent dental care needs, having a trusted dentist readily available is invaluable. You can rely on them to provide immediate assistance to any member of your family. Instead of searching for an emergency dentist each time a situation arises, you can simply reach out to your family dentist and schedule an immediate appointment.
Family Dentist in Rockville MD
Dr. Hackley and our knowledgeable and compassionate staff are dedicated to helping you create and maintain a smile you love. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
If you need dental care but the budget is too tight, you may be wondering if dentists offer payment plans. The answer is most of them do. If you are struggling with the cost of dental care, you’re not alone. Over half of U.S. adults say they have skipped or delayed dental care due to the cost. Fortunately, there are alternatives. Let’s talk about them.
What are dental payment plans?
Dental payment plans are financial options for dental work. Instead of paying the cost of dental care upfront, patients can make payments over time. Depending on your dentist, the payment plans available may differ.
Where can you get a dental payment plan?
Your dentist office will provide dental payment plans. Typically, dentists offer these plans to help make care more affordable for all patients. However, not all dentists offer payment plans. Some only accept insurance or full payment upfront.
Cost of Dental Treatment without Insurance
An estimated 76.5 million adults don’t have dental insurance. So, let’s look at some of the average costs of dental work when paying out of pocket.
- Oral exam and cleaning: up to $200
- Oral X-rays: $300 on up
- Root canal: up to $2,700
- Tooth extraction: between $75 and $4,000, depending on damage and need for anesthesia.
- Dental implants: between $1,750 and $8,270 a tooth
- Braces: $5,500 on up to $10,000
- Dentures: $1400 to $2800
Things to Consider
There are a few things to consider before you commit to a dental payment plan. First, if you struggle with poor credit, you may not be able to secure a payment plan. Some companies do waive credit checks though. Additionally, you need to consider interest rates, though some dental plans come with a 0% interest rate to sweeten the offer. Finally, make sure you can handle the ongoing payments.
Dental Payment Plan at Hackley DDS
Our team is proud to offer Sunbit as a monthly payment option at ROCHELLE E HACKLEY DDS ,LLC. Sunbit approves 85% of patients with no hard credit check and no late fees. Click here to see how much you are pre-qualified for! To schedule an appointment, please contact us today.
Root canals save teeth by fighting infected nerves and treating deep infections. If you’re curious about the cost of root canal in Rockville, you’re in the right place. Today’s article covers what they are, how much they cost, and whether they’re right for you.
What is a Root Canal Rockville
During a root canal, a general dentist (or endodontist) removes inflamed or infected pulp on the inside of the tooth. Afterward, it’s carefully cleaned and filled; you’ll be on your way that same day! While the amount of anesthesia depends on the severity of each case, most patients only require local anesthesia depending on severity.
Who Needs a Root Canal
Your dentist may suggest a root canal if your tooth is severely damaged and has a diseased or dead nerve. Some common signs you may need one include toothaches, sensitivity to hot and cold, and swollen gums.
What is the Cost of Root Canal Rockville
The cost of a root canal in Rockville varies based on the specific case. With insurance, the charge is typically $500 to $1,000. And depending on your policy, your copayment is a fixed amount or a percentage of the total price.
Generally, root canals cost more without dental insurance. While the final price depends on the extent of the procedure, the average cost of a root canal without insurance is anywhere from $600 to $1,600.
Note that the further back in the mouth, the pricier the root canal gets. Therefore, molars usually cost more than front teeth!
The Best Place to get Root Canal in Rockville
So, what is the cost of a root canal Rockville? We hope today’s article gave you an answer. If you’re experiencing tooth pain, it’s crucial to see a dentist to determine if a root canal is necessary. Ignoring a tooth infection can lead to complications in other parts of the body, as dental and general health are closely related.
Luckily, Dr. Hackley and her team are experts in oral surgeries. Contact our team to discover the best plan for you!
Interested in getting a tooth extraction Rockville? This dental procedure involves removing a tooth from the socket. At Hackley DDS, we perform tooth extractions to treat periodontal disease, tooth decay, overcrowding, or emergencies.
The Process
Wondering what to expect during a tooth extraction Rockville? Dr. Hackley begins by carefully examining your entire mouth. Then, she numbs the area, so the extraction is painless.
Types of Tooth Extractions Rockville
There are two different kinds of removals – simple and surgical. If you can clearly locate the tooth in your mouth, simple extractions are done with local anesthesia. But if the tooth is hard to reach, surgical extractions are performed with general anesthesia.
Reasons for Tooth Extractions Rockville
At Hackley DDS, extracting teeth is a last resort. Here are some reasons why it might be necessary:
Periodontal Disease
Removing teeth is an excellent solution for advanced periodontal disease. This gum disease worsens over time if treated improperly. And if your tooth starts to loosen, extracting it is the best option.
Severe Tooth Decay
If tooth decay progresses and reaches the root of your tooth, extraction is necessary to avoid infection. You could also get a root canal, depending on the severity.
Overcrowding
Extractions create space, which might be necessary for braces or other orthodontic procedures.
Impacted Teeth
Wisdom teeth or other impacted teeth usually require extraction.
Mandatory After an Incident
Removal might be necessary if dental treatment can’t save the tooth. However, preservation is always our priority.
Preserving Smiles is Our Priority
As you can see, getting a tooth extraction Rockville is necessary for various reasons. However, we always try to avoid it if we can. At Hackley DDS, we prioritize crowns, bridges, bonding, and veneers before extractions.
Want to know if this procedure is right for you? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Hackley today!
Root canals have long been surrounded by myths and misconceptions, often giving dental patients anxiety and fear. However, there’s no need to fret! In the capable hands of a root canal specialist in Rockville, you have nothing to worry about. These dental professionals possess the knowledge, experience, and expertise to save your smile and alleviate your dental woes.
What is a Root Canal Specialist?
A root canal specialist is a dental professional who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases and conditions that affect the tooth pulp and the surrounding tissues of the teeth. Much like the roots of a tree, the root of the tooth is the part that is below your gums and holds your tooth in place. While general dentists are trained in a wide range of dental procedures, root canal specialists undergo additional years of advanced education and clinical training specifically focused on endodontics. A root canal specialist is going to focus on relieving any tooth and mouth pain while also trying to save your natural tooth whenever they can.
What Does a Root Canal Specialist Do?
Root canal specialists are highly skilled in performing root canal therapy. This procedure involves removing the infected or damaged dental pulp from the inner part of the tooth, known as the root canal, and sealing it to prevent further infection. They are experts in utilizing advanced techniques and specialized tools to ensure the efficient and effective treatment of root canal infections.
What Kind of Training Does a Root Canal Specialist Receive?
Dental school takes about four years to complete. Once a dentist finishes school, a root canal specialist receives at least two more years of focused dental training. During this time, they study various techniques to diagnose and treat tooth pain that affects tissues and roots inside your teeth.
Common Reasons to See a Root Canal Specialist Rockville Maryland 
Because Root Canal Specialists focus mainly on fixing damaged tooth pulp or roots, the following are common causes for these issues:
- Tooth decay: this destruction of a tooth is caused by poor teeth and gum care. You may need to see a root canal specialist if a cavity that goes untreated damages your tooth’s root tissue. Tooth decay can cause inflammation (pulpitis), infection in the pulp tissue, or even death (necrosis).
- Tooth injuries: Trauma affecting your tooth (such as from a hard fall or accident).
- Tooth abscess: An abscess happens when bacteria gets inside your tooth or gums and causes a buildup of pus.
- Cracked tooth: Damage to your tooth to the point that there is an opening for bacteria to get inside.
What Kind of Procedures Does a Root Canal Specialist Do?
Root canal specialist can perform a variety of procedures including:
- Root canal: This procedure will remove damaged or infected tooth pulp and then reseals the tooth to prevent infection.
- Endodontic retreatment: If a root canal didn’t heal properly, this procedure removes and replaces materials.
- Endodontic surgery: This is any specialized surgery, such as apicoectomy (the removal of the end, or tip, of a tooth’s root).
- Emergency dental surgery: This procedure could extend from repairing difficult dental injuries to severe tooth infections.
- Tooth extraction (removal) surgery: Pulling a tooth because there’s too much tissue damage for a provider to save it.
- Dental implant surgery: Surgical placement of a dental implant. A specialist can use an implant to restore the function of your teeth and repair the appearance after you’ve had or have a tooth removed.
Root canal specialists are still dentists. So, they can perform the same common procedures such as cleanings, whitenings, crowns, and veneers.
When Should You Call a Root Canal Specialist?
It is important to call a dental provider you trust any time you have tooth pain that doesn’t go away or gets worse. Waiting could cause further damage and put you at higher risk of not being able to save the natural tooth.
You may need a root canal specialist if you have
- Tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Unexplained mouth or jaw pain
- Sensitivity to cold, hot or sweet foods
- The area around the affected tooth and gums is inflamed
Seek immediate treatment if you have an abscess, you’ve had a tooth injury or there are signs of infection like fever, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or redness or swelling in your mouth.
Root Canal Specialists in Rockville Maryland
Dental, Spa, and Cosmetic Surgery has a compassionate and knowledgeable team dedicated to providing the best dental care for you. If you are experiencing tooth pain or sensitivity, contact us today to schedule your consultation!
