Oral health emergencies cannot be predicted, but knowing how to get the care you need when you need it can save you from a lot of suffering. If you’ve been suddenly struck with a sudden toothache or an oral injury, you’re probably quite interested in knowing whether you should go to the emergency room or head to your emergency dentist’s office for care. Here’s a brief overview of which provider is best for which oral health emergencies.
When Should I See My Emergency Dentist?
Your emergency dentist is trained to handle a variety of dental crises, including:
- Severe toothache
- Severe chips or cracks in teeth
- A partially or fully dislodged tooth
- Infections like a tooth abscess
- A damaged or lost dental restoration like a crown, bridge, veneer, or filling
If you find yourself having one of these emergencies, call your emergency dentist’s office to explain the situation and let them know that you’re coming. They will pencil you in for an upcoming appointment so that you can get the care you need as soon as possible.
When Should I Go to the Emergency Room?
While your emergency dentist can handle many oral health emergencies, some severe injuries should be addressed in an emergency room. A few of these include:
- Oral injuries such as lacerations that result in persistent bleeding
- A broken jaw
- Advanced dental infections that cause fever, chills, facial rashes, or difficulty with swallowing
In the event that you have a lost tooth, a severe toothache, or another oral health problem that would be best addressed by your emergency dentist when their office is closed, the emergency room will be able to provide you with antibiotics and painkillers to tide you over until the office opens. In the case of a lost tooth, the staff at the emergency room can treat it so that it remains in savable condition for up to twenty-four hours.
Knowing what to do during a dental emergency can keep a stressful situation from becoming worse. By getting the help you need sooner, you can get back to normal life with the least amount of trouble.
About the Practice
Family Dental Associates offers the finest oral health services available in the community of Spring Hill, TN. Led by Drs. Emily Allen and Brandon Jewell, the staff sees to each patient receiving holistic dental care that addresses their needs. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are having a dental emergency, dial (615) 302-1414. For more information, contact the office online.