Dental emergencies can be stressful and often occur when you least expect them. Whether caused by physical injury or untreated decay and infection, these situations demand immediate attention. If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, you may wonder whether you should head to the nearest emergency room or visit an emergency dentist. In most cases, seeing a dentist is the better option – here’s why!
What Is a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency refers to any issue involving pain, trauma, or damage to your teeth and gums that requires urgent care. For most of these cases, you need to schedule a same-day appointment to address the problem and relieve discomfort. Signs of a dental emergency include:
- Severe toothaches
- Painful facial swelling
- Bleeding, swollen, or aching gums
- Soft tissue injuries to the mouth or gums
- Cracked, broken, or knocked-out teeth
- Damaged dental restorations, such as crowns, bridges, or fillings
Why You Should Visit an Emergency Dentist
Emergency dentists are trained to address urgent issues involving your teeth, gums, and oral tissues. These professionals can quickly assess your condition, identify the cause of the problem, and provide treatment to relieve pain and restore function. Visiting an emergency dentist near you is usually the best option for resolving dental emergencies effectively.
Dental professionals can take the necessary steps to prevent the situation from worsening. For example, if you have a cracked tooth or damaged dental restoration, waiting too long could lead to infection or more severe damage, requiring more complex and costly treatments. An emergency dentist can help you avoid these complications and get your smile back on track quickly.
When Should You Go to the Emergency Room?
While an emergency dentist is typically the best choice for dental issues, there are situations where heading to the nearest emergency room (ER) is necessary. If you’re experiencing life-threatening symptoms or serious physical injuries, the ER should be your first stop. Examples of these situations include:
- Jaw fractures or dislocations
- Severe cuts or lacerations to the face or mouth
- A swollen abscess that is affecting your ability to breathe or swallow
- Any situation that involves uncontrollable bleeding or severe facial trauma
About the Practice
At Long Family Dental, we’re committed to delivering expert care with a focus on comfort and attention to detail. Our team upholds the highest standards of service to ensure your smile is in great hands. Whether you’re due for a routine checkup or need urgent dental care, we’re here to help. To book an appointment, visit our website or call us at (469) 336-3086.