Brushing and flossing help strengthen your teeth and gums to better resist potential causes of dental emergencies, such as decay, disease, or other types of damage. However, there’s no guarantee that you’ll never have any issues.
For example, you might develop a sudden or severe ache that won’t subside, or take a blow to the face that knocks out a tooth. But when it comes to oral issues, it’s normal to wonder whether you should head to the nearest emergency room or contact your dentist. Continue reading to learn more about where to go for help when you need it!
What is Considered a Dental Emergency?
There are many potential reasons for toothaches or sensitivity, and not all of them are considered urgent. For instance, eating too many acidic foods or aggressive toothbrushing can potentially cause these symptoms, which can then be resolved by making the required changes.
But there are also plenty of dental emergencies that require a dental appointment as soon as possible, including:
- A lost or damaged dental crown, filling, or other restoration.
- A persistent or severe throbbing sensation.
- Lingering sensitivity.
- A lost or knocked-out tooth.
- A loose or destabilized adult tooth.
- Cuts or lacerations to the mouth or lips.
Should I Go to the ER for Urgent Oral Issues?
Many patients question whether it’s best to contact their oral healthcare provider or have someone drive them to the closest emergency room when they have a sudden dental problem. However, in most circumstances, it’s better to start with your dentist.
This is because, although ER doctors are incredibly knowledgeable, they haven’t completed the same training to quickly identify dental concerns or devise an appropriate, long-term treatment plan. Furthermore, they’re equipped to handle a wide variety of scenarios, but usually don’t have the same advanced technology intended to assess oral issues, specifically.
When is it Best to Visit the ER Instead of My Dentist?
With that said, there are some exceptions in which it’s best to get yourself to the emergency room immediately. For example, if you’ve sustained an injury to your jawbone or suspect it’s dislocated, have developed a sudden high fever or other signs of infection, or have a severe laceration that won’t stop bleeding after 10 minutes of applying firm but gentle pressure, an ER can provide urgent care services to handle the immediate concerns.
If you contact your dentist and they feel they aren’t the most qualified professional to meet your needs, they will let you know and either recommend heading to the emergency room or provide an appropriate referral for a specialist, such as a maxillofacial surgeon.
Then, if necessary, you can follow up with your dentist later to address any ongoing cosmetic or dental concerns that may result from your incident.
About the Practice
At Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry of the Keys, you and your family benefit from a team of oral healthcare providers who are passionate about improving your lives by enhancing your dental health. Dr. Cobb and Dr. Martin, both accomplished general dentists, collaborate with Dr. Mazor, an esteemed periodontist, to offer a complete menu of services to meet all your unique needs, including emergency care. They are equipped with advanced technology to quickly identify the root concern and devise a customized treatment plan to address it. You can request an appointment on the website or call (305) 680-1553.