Dental emergencies are distressing! Often, when a toothache strikes, it can leave you nearly paralyzed with pain and indecision. This is why it’s important to make a plan before disaster strikes so you know exactly what to do. But where should you start? Is it best to go to the emergency room at a hospital? Or should you call your dentist? Continue reading to learn when you should go to the ER with a dental emergency and when your dentist should handle it.
Why Does It Matter Where I Go?
Where you choose to go with your dental emergency makes all the difference. Going to the wrong place could cost you time, money, and pain. Dentist offices and emergency rooms at hospitals have completely different sets of equipment. Going to the emergency room with a toothache, for example, may see you paying $60 or more for some Ibuprofen. On top of that, your tooth will still be infected!
When to See Your Dentist
Dentist offices have specialized tools for treating a wide range of dental emergencies. Your dentist is also a specialist in the oral cavity and all its structures and tissues. Here’s when it’s best to see your dentist:
- Toothache: While a toothache can be excruciating, it is not typically considered a medical emergency unless accompanied by other severe symptoms. Schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your tooth pain.
- Lost Filling or Crown: If a filling or crown becomes dislodged, it can cause discomfort and expose the underlying tooth to further damage. Your dentist can have the restoration replaced and prevent complications.
- Broken or Chipped Tooth: When you break or crack a tooth it can cause severe pain. Your dentist can assess the extent of the damage and recommend the right treatment to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
- Dental Infection: There are a wide range of infections that could occur in your mouth from gum disease to dental abscesses. Depending on the severity, your dentist may need to intervene quickly, especially if you feel swelling or discomfort in your neck or jaw.
When to go to the ER
Emergency rooms are well-equipped to handle severe damage. When it comes to your mouth, here’s when you should head straight there:
- Broken Bones in the Face or Jaw: If you’ve sustained a severe injury like a fractured jaw, the nearest emergency room should be your destination. The ER staff can assess and stabilize your condition before referring you to a maxillofacial surgeon if necessary.
- Uncontrolled Bleeding: Bleeding from the mouth that can’t be stopped with pressure or other first-aid measures requires immediate attention.
Knowing when to go to the emergency room for dental emergencies and when to see your dentist can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. When disaster strikes, take a moment to assess your state and call your dentist. They can guide you to the right place to receive timely and personalized care.
About the Practice
If you’re in pain due to a toothache in the Fort Worth area, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Krunal and Dr. Heliben Desai. They are an experienced dental super team who use the latest dental technology to offer a more comfortable experience. They also offer same-day dental emergency appointments for your convenience. Call (817) 741-1300 to schedule an emergency dental appointment at Care 32 Dental of Fort Worth or visit the website to explore a full menu of other services and treatments.