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Should You Go to the ER for a Dental Emergency?

October 22, 2020

Filed under: Uncategorized — robisondental @ 11:29 pm
Man with toothache

Encountering a dental emergency in Canton can be incredibly stressful, and it is difficult to make quick decisions when you are in a lot of pain. Even though you should go to the emergency room for many urgent situations, it isn’t usually the best solution when you are dealing with a dental emergency. Continue reading to learn more about when you should go to the emergency room for care vs. when seeing your dentist is your best bet.

When Should You Go to the Emergency Room?

If you have a serious laceration or cut on your face, a broken or dislocated jaw, or a serious infection that is impacting your ability to breathe or swallow, the emergency room is definitely the best place for you to be. If you’re unable to make it to the ER, call 911. These life-threatening emergencies are better treated at a hospital than a dental office where they may not be equipped to handle them.

When Should You Go to Your Emergency Dentist?

If you have a dental emergency that is not life threatening, but you are still needing to get care as soon as you can, you should call your emergency dentist. They are equipped and trained to handle the following problems:

  • Cracked, chipped, and broken teeth
  • Partially dislodged and knocked out teeth
  • Damaged or lost restorations
  • Oral abscesses
  • Severe toothaches

Why Is Going to The Dentist the Best Option Most of the Time?

A dentist is the most qualified individual to provide dental care to patients, even in emergency situations. Many people don’t know that it is actually illegal in a lot of states for anyone other than a dentist to perform any restorative dental care, fill cavities, or extract teeth. Often times, emergency rooms don’t have a dentist on call to do these things either. All they can really do is rule out life-threatening issues and provide you with antibiotics and pain medication to give you relief temporarily. Even after your visit to the ER, you will still need to go get dental care sooner rather than later.

By avoiding the ER when it isn’t necessary, you are also allowing others to get quicker treatment without overwhelming the hospital staff. If you aren’t in imminent danger, it is best you head to the dental office instead.

If you have a dental emergency, the ER probably isn’t the best place for you. Call your dentist instead to let them know what’s going on. They will be able to give you the best advice and instructions for what to do next. This way, you can receive treatment and get back on your feet in no time!

About the Author

Dr. J. D. Robison studied at Purdue University, University of Michigan, and the University of Detroit Mercy. He has also completed training at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute and is a member of numerous professional organizations including the International Academy of Comprehensive Aesthetics. His practice offers same-day dental care for patients dealing with dental emergencies. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Canton, visit his website or call (734) 453-6320.

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