Emergency Dentist or ER? Knowing Where to Go

Choosing between an emergency dentist and the ER during a dental emergency can be confusing. Research shows that both facilities are well-equipped to address dental issues. Each also has the right teams to help you. Knowing whether to go to an emergency dentist or an ER when a dental emergency occurs can provide you with more targeted solutions.

Going to an emergency dentist

This dental care provider has the training to address urgent dental issues. These problems do not necessarily require trips to the hospital. An emergency dentist focuses on treating oral injuries and relieving pain. This dentist also stabilizes the oral structures until the oral treatment is finished. The following are the different conditions that need attention from an emergency dentist.

What an emergency dentist can treat

A severe toothache may be a sign of infection. It may also mean structural damage or dental decay. The emergency dentist can provide temporary fillings. Draining the abscess can also relieve the discomfort. Root canal therapy removes the infected pulp and protects the treated tooth with a dental crown.

Broken, cracked, or chipped teeth need bonding material or crown placement. The solutions restore the function and protect the tooth's structure. Knocked-out teeth must be treated within 30 minutes to an hour. This amount of time is when reimplantation is still possible. The provider will reposition the tooth. Splinting it to the adjacent tooth can encourage healing.

Dental infection includes abscesses. Fever and swelling may occur. The patient may also experience severe pain. The emergency dentist will correct the situation by draining the abscess. The patient will take antibiotics to treat the source of infection.

Lost restorations tend to fall out or loosen. The teeth underneath become more susceptible to damage and sensitivity. The emergency dentist will try to restore the missing ones to keep the teeth protected. In some cases, a replacement will be necessary.

Severe mouth or gum pain results from damage to soft oral tissues. These damaged tissues are from injuries or infections. An emergency dentist will diagnose and treat the root cause of the pain. Severe mouth injuries can also result in bleeding and pain. Press a clean cloth or gauze on the part of the mouth that is bleeding. An ice pack can reduce swelling and pain.

Jaw pain can affect a person's quality of life. It is a telling symptom of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). This condition can lead to headaches and other types of discomfort. The emergency dentist can provide treatment to relieve the pain.

Going to the ER

Going to the emergency room is the right choice when the dental crisis involves uncontrolled bleeding or infection. A trip to the ER is also necessary when there is evidence of serious trauma to the mouth or face. The ER staff will provide treatments to manage pain and stop bleeding. Coordinating follow-up care with the general dentist will follow. Going to the ER for non-fatal oral issues may result in higher costs. It may also result in delayed care.