If you’ve ever been faced with a dental emergency, you understand the level of stress in addition to the pain you are feeling. When you’re experiencing a great deal of suffering and don’t know where to go, it is understandable why someone would rush straight to the emergency room instead of seeing their dentist for urgent care. Continue reading to learn more about where you should go if you are experiencing a dental emergency and why your emergency dentist in Conway is usually the right answer over the ER.
When Should I Go to the ER for Dental Pain?
Any emergency involving trauma to your face and mouth that requires immediate attention is usually best handled at the hospital. If you have a serious cut or laceration, a broken or dislocated jaw, or an infection that is very swollen and affecting your ability to breathe or swallow, you should either head to the emergency room or call 911. If you are dealing with an emergency that could be life-threatening, the hospital is the best place to be.
When Should I See My Dentist for a Dental Emergency?
When dealing with a dental emergency that is not life-threatening but still requires immediate care, the best thing to do is call your emergency dentist. They are equipped to handle any of the following:
- Lost or damaged restorations
- Oral abscesses
- Partially dislodged teeth
- Broken teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Severe toothaches
Why Is Seeing the Dentist for a Dental Emergency Usually My Best Option?
When it comes to receiving dental care, even in an emergency situation, a dentist is the most qualified option. Not only are they the best person to deal with a wide variety of oral health issues, but you are also allowing others who need immediate medical attention to get faster treatment without overwhelming the emergency room staff.
Many people don’t realize that in most states, it is illegal for anyone other than a dentist to perform restorative dental care, fill cavities, or pull teeth. Most emergency rooms don’t have a dentist on call either. They can’t do much more than rule out imminent life-threatening conditions and prescribe you antibiotics and painkillers for temporary relief. In the end, you will most likely need to head to the dentist for treatment at some point.
If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, chances are the ER is not your best option. Instead, give your dentist in Conway a call and explain your situation. They will be happy to give you advice and help your smile get back on track!
About the Practice
At American Dental Care, we put your needs first by customizing your treatment to get the results you desire. We can handle virtually any dental procedure at our office, so don’t worry about having to go anywhere else. Dr. Tommy Murph has more than 25 years of experience helping smiles in Conway. Hopefully, it never happens, but if you ever find yourself in a dental emergency, his office is open on Saturdays and Dr. Murph offers same-day appointments, which you can schedule on his website or by calling (843) 488-4357.