Dental emergencies can be scary, and it’s easy to panic when you’re in pain or dealing with a sudden dental disaster. However, not every oral issue requires a trip to the emergency room. Knowing whether to head to the ER or contact your dentist can save you time, money, and needless discomfort. So, if you’re curious about when to head into a dental office and when to see a doctor, continue reading.
When Should I Go to the Dentist for Dental Emergencies?
In most cases, your dentist should be your first point of contact for dental emergencies. Dentists are specifically trained to handle oral health issues and have the right equipment to treat your problem effectively. Here are some situations where your dentist is the best choice:
- Toothaches: A severe toothache could be a sign of infection, a cavity, or gum disease. Your dentist can diagnose and treat the root cause, providing relief.
- Chipped or Cracked Teeth: Like toothaches,a chipped or cracked tooth can usually be handled by your dentist. Just be sure to save any broken pieces and contact your dentist quickly.
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Surprisingly, this is a case where your dentist is often the right choice. If you can, gently place the tooth back in its socket or store it in milk and get to your dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving it.
When Should I go to the ER?
There are some situations where a dental issue can be life-threatening or too severe for your dentist to handle. In these cases, it’s best to go straight to the ER:
- Severe Swelling: If you’re experiencing swelling in your face, neck, or jaw, it could indicate a serious infection is spreading. This can be dangerous, especially if it’s affecting your ability to breathe or swallow.
- Uncontrollable Bleeding: After a dental injury, if you can’t stop the bleeding after applying pressure for 10 to 15 minutes, go to the ER immediately.
- Broken Jaw: If you think your jaw might be fractured or broken, the ER has the proper equipment and staff to solve the issue.
- Abscess with Fever: A dental abscess (a painful, pus-filled infection) can become dangerous if accompanied by fever or swelling. These symptoms are a sign that the infection might be spreading, which could turn deadly if left untreated.
When it comes to dental emergencies, knowing where to go can make all the difference. For most tooth-related issues, your dentist should be your first call. However, if you’re dealing with a severe or potentially life-threatening situation, don’t hesitate to head to the ER. Getting the care you need when you need it could save more than your smile!
About the Author
Dr. JD Hansen is a talented dental expert with a doctorate from the University of Louisville. He understands that dental emergencies can be stressful. So, he strives to provide quick, compassionate care to all his patients when they need it the most. Call (801) 293-1234 to schedule a consultation with us at White Peak Dental. You can also visit our website to view a full menu of treatments and services we offer.