Just like breaking a bone may require getting a cast or cutting your finger could involve stitches, dental issues that are painful and urgent often require a trip to the emergency dentist. These are the unsung heroes of oral health, dedicated to restoring not only teeth but also patients’ peace of mind. In this enlightening article, we’ll explore the world of emergency dentistry, shedding light on what qualifies as an emergency, why swift action is important, and available treatments.
A dental emergency is defined as any problem requiring immediate attention. This includes severe tooth pain, a broken or knocked out tooth, a swelling gum, or a life-threatening infection or abscess. Accidents like sports-related injuries, car accidents, and rough play in and around the house can all lead to dental emergencies, as can certain foods and drinks.
Unlike regular dental appointments, which are usually scheduled well in advance, emergency dentists have reserved time in their schedules for patients with urgent needs. This means that you should be able to receive care the same day or within a few days. In addition, most emergency dentists are open after hours to provide care when regular dental offices are closed.
The primary benefit of visiting an emergency dentist is immediate relief of pain or discomfort. In most cases, the emergency dentist will be able to address your immediate issue and provide you with the information you need to resolve your pain or discomfort at home until you can see your regular dentist for additional treatment.
Another key benefit of visiting an emergency dentist is the ability to get a second opinion. It’s possible that your dental issue isn’t as urgent as you think. By waiting until you can visit your dentist during regular office hours, you may be able to save money by avoiding the after-hours fees charged by some emergency dentists.
In addition to treating dental emergencies, emergency dentists are trained to help patients manage and control their symptoms until they can be seen by their regular dentist. For example, an emergency dentist can treat a patient for a painful gum infection by draining the abscess and prescribing antibiotics. They can also provide temporary or permanent restorations to address issues like a cracked or chipped tooth.
Finally, emergency dentists are experienced in managing a variety of dental trauma-related situations, including fractured or chipped teeth and severe tooth decay. In addition, they can perform root canals, dental implants, and dentures. Depending on the nature of your dental problem, you may be referred to a specialist for additional procedures like a jaw surgery or bone graft. This is the perfect way to ensure that your dental emergency is handled properly and that you’re not facing more complicated problems down the road.