When you are experiencing a dental emergency, it can be difficult to decide whether to rush to the emergency room or seek out an emergency dentist. The right choice significantly impacts both the immediate management of pain and the long-term health of your teeth.
Emergency dentists at Eckland Family Dentistry specialize in treating oral health issues and can often provide more targeted, efficient care for dental problems than general ER staff. Unless it is a life-or-death situation, we are the best choice for urgent dental care needs.
Should You See an Emergency Dentist Instead of Going to the ER?
When faced with a dental emergency, deciding whether to seek help from an emergency dentist or head to the emergency room (ER) can be critical. Understanding the differences in care provided by these facilities helps you make an informed decision that not only addresses your immediate needs but also protects your long-term oral health. Consider emergency dentists for:
- Specific Dental Expertise: Emergency dentists specialize in dental conditions, offering precise and knowledgeable care for issues such as severe toothaches, knocked-out teeth, broken crowns, or dental abscesses. We have the specific tools and expertise needed to handle these situations, which general ER staff may not have.
- Immediate and Appropriate Care: An emergency dentist can often see patients on the same day to address urgent dental issues. This immediate care is necessary for conditions like a dislodged or fractured tooth, where timely intervention matters to save a tooth.
- Cost-Effective Care: Visiting an emergency dentist can be more cost-effective compared to the ER. Since ERs are equipped to handle a broad range of emergencies, their services can be more expensive, especially for treatments that are specifically dental in nature.
The following are scenarios when you should consider going to the ER instead:
- Life-Threatening Situations: If the dental emergency is accompanied by potentially life-threatening symptoms such as heavy bleeding, severe infections, or trauma to the face and jaw, it is essential to go to the ER. Hospitals are equipped to handle these critical situations and can provide the necessary medical care.
- After Hours: If a dental emergency occurs outside of normal dental office hours, and you cannot reach an emergency dentist, the ER can provide necessary palliative relief until you can see a dentist. This is especially important for severe pain or infections that cannot wait.
In many cases, an emergency dentist is the best choice for urgent dental care, given their specialized equipment and training. They not only provide immediate relief but also offer follow-up care to ensure healing and function. Always keep contact information for your dentist handy, and ask about emergency services they offer.
10 Tips to Help You in a Dental Emergency
A dental emergency is stressful, but being prepared and knowing what to do helps mitigate the situation effectively. Here are some practical tips to help you handle an emergency until you can get professional care:
1. Determine if the Emergency Is Life or Death
Evaluate the severity of the condition or injury. If it is life-threatening, go to the ER. Next, determine whether the emergency requires immediate attention from a dental professional or if it can wait until you get an appointment.
2. Know Your Dental Emergency Kit
Having a dental emergency kit on hand is invaluable. Essential items include gauze, a small container with a lid, over-the-counter pain relievers, and saline solution. Include your dentist’s emergency contact information as well.
3. Handle Knocked-Out Tooth Properly
If a tooth is knocked out, handle it by the crown (the part that is exposed in the mouth) and not the root. Rinse it under water to clean it, but avoid scrubbing or removing any attached tissue fragments. If possible, reinsert the tooth into the socket and hold it in place with gauze or a cloth. If you cannot reinsert, place the tooth in a glass of milk or saline to keep it moist until you see your dentist.
4. Manage Bleeding
If you are bleeding, apply light pressure with a gauze or a clean cloth. Continue to apply pressure for about 10 to 15 minutes. Go to the ER if the bleeding does not stop.
5. Relieve Pain
Use over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate pain. Avoid aspirin as it can increase bleeding. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek near the area can also help reduce pain and swelling.
6. Save Any Pieces
If teeth are chipped or broken, save the pieces you can find. Rinse your mouth with warm water as well as any broken pieces as well.
7. Rinse With Salt Water
For a toothache or minor injury, rinse the mouth with lukewarm salt water to reduce swelling, dislodge any particles, and alleviate pain.
8. Use Temporary Dental Cement
For lost fillings or crowns, you can use dental cement, available at most pharmacies, to cover the open tooth until you can see a dentist. This can help protect and stabilize the tooth.
9. Avoid Certain Foods
After a dental emergency, avoid chewing on the side of the injured tooth. Choose soft foods and avoid hot or cold beverages if there is sensitivity.
10. Contact Your Dentist Immediately
Even if the emergency seems minor, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. They can provide specific instructions or decide if you need to be seen immediately.
Emergency Dental Care: Choosing the Right Option With Eckland Family Dentistry
When dental emergencies arise, you need a trusted provider who can deliver immediate, precise, and compassionate care. At Eckland Family Dentistry, we are here to address urgent dental issues like severe tooth pain, knocked-out teeth, and broken crowns promptly. With our specialized expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and focus on your long-term oral health, we aim to provide relief and ensure the best possible outcome.
In a dental emergency, knowing where to turn can save valuable time and even a tooth. Call us for assistance or to schedule a same-day appointment. Contact Eckland Family Dentistry at (425) 481-0755 or use our appointment request page for urgent dental needs. Let us be your partner in protecting your smile.