One minute your mouth feels normal, and the next you’re suffering from a severe toothache. Obviously, when this type of dental emergency strikes, you’ll want to have the problem treated by an expert as soon as possible. But this raises an important question: who should you call? Your first choice might be the nearest emergency room, but is that really the best option for getting the urgent care your smile needs?
Can the ER Handle Dental Emergencies?
The fact of the matter is that most emergency rooms are not stocked with dental equipment, and they typically do not have trained dental professionals on staff. This means they are not properly equipped to deal with common dental emergencies such as toothaches and broken teeth. Thus, if you go to the ER for a dental issue, they likely won’t be able to treat the root of the problem.
There is a major exception, however. You should call the ER if you have an oral health issue that is putting your life in danger. This can include:
- A broken or dislocated jaw.
- A severe oral injury that results in bleeding that won’t stop.
- Oral swelling that is making it difficult to breathe or swallow.
Who Should You Call for a Regular Dental Emergency?
For dental emergencies that are not life-threatening, it’s generally best to call your dentist. Not only will they be able to accurately identify the underlying issue, but they’ll be able to treat the problem in order to put a stop to your pain and restore the health of your smile.
It’s a good idea to double-check how your dentist handles emergencies. Many practices offer same-day appointments for patients with urgent oral health issues, which can help ensure that you get the care you need quickly.
What Happens During an Emergency Dental Appointment?
When you visit your dentist for an emergency appointment, their main focus will be to learn as much as possible about the problem, including what’s causing it and how much damage has already been done. In addition to performing a thorough examination of your mouth, they will likely also take X-rays. If you’re in immediate pain, your dental team will take appropriate steps to alleviate it.
After your dental emergency has been diagnosed, the next step is to figure out the best way to address it. Your dentist will explain what treatment options are available based on your needs. For example, a toothache caused by an infection may call for a root canal treatment.
It can be easy to panic when a dental emergency occurs, which is why it’s essential to already have an idea of who you should call. Consider adding your dentist’s number to your list of contacts so that you can reach out to them right away if your smile ever needs immediate attention.
About the Author
Dr. Tommy Murph has well over two decades of dental experience. He earned his dental degree at the Medical University of South Carolina, and he has completed more than 600 continuing education hours. At American Dental Care in Conway, he offers same-day emergency appointments for patients with urgent dental issues. If you’re ever in need of emergency dental care, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Murph by calling (843) 488-4357.