Dental emergencies are often incredibly difficult to anticipate, so many dentists offer same-day emergency appointments so their patients can receive critical oral care when they need it most. During these visits, dentists carry out limited exams that allow them to ascertain the cause of the problem and determine an appropriate treatment for it. Here’s a quick look at how emergency dental visits work and how they can end pain and restore your health.
What Should I Do When Dental Emergency Strikes?
A dental emergency is any oral health issue that requires immediate care. These can include:
- Chips, cracks, or fractures.
- Knocked-out or partially knocked-out teeth.
- Toothache.
- Dental abscess.
- A dislodged restoration like a filling or crown.
- A broken denture or dental bridge.
- Minor oral wounds. Major wounds should be treated at the emergency room.
- Persistent jaw pain that interferes with your daily life.
- An object stuck between the teeth that can’t be removed by brushing and flossing.
If you experience a dental emergency, take over-the-counter pain medication as necessary and call your dentist to receive first aid instructions and a same-day appointment time. Store any dislodged teeth, pieces of teeth, or broken restorations in clean, sturdy containers according to your dentist’s instructions. When your appointment time is near, head to your dentist’s office to receive care.
What Happens During an Emergency Dental Appointment?
A limited exam involves your dentist inspecting the area of the mouth experiencing problems and testing it to determine the cause. This may involve feeling the oral tissues to look for irregularities or evaluating a damaged tooth with specialized tools like probes or dental mirrors. Then, your dentist will recommend an appropriate treatment to address the problem. In some cases, the treatment can be carried out during the same appointment. In other cases, your dentist will schedule you for a separate appointment and prescribe medications like antibiotics or painkillers to help you stay healthy and comfortable until then.
Don’t let a dental emergency cause miserable pain and serious long-term complications like tooth loss and potentially dangerous secondary infections. Seeking help from your oral health professional when you need it can help you keep your smile healthy and complete for life.
About the Author
Dr. Christel Cochell earned her dental degree at Oregon State University and regularly furthers her education with postgraduate coursework. She is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Oregon Dental Association, and the Seattle Study Club. Her office in Salem offers general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, dial (503) 585-8688. For non-urgent inquiries, contact the office online.