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Dealing with a dental emergency can disrupt your plans and cause significant discomfort, making it hard to work, sleep, and eat. Knowing whether to visit your dentist or the emergency room is crucial in such situations so you can receive prompt treatment to remedy the issue. Read on to understand when a dental emergency requires immediate attention from a dentist or if a trip to the emergency room is more appropriate.
Why You Should Visit the Dentist Instead of the ER
Emergency room personnel are highly skilled and experienced in providing urgent medical care. However, most emergency rooms do not have a dentist on staff. While they can offer temporary relief for dental issues like bleeding or pain, it is generally recommended to visit your dentist for proper dental care.
In addition, emergency rooms often have longer wait times compared to dental offices, which can allow your dental emergency to escalate during the wait. Furthermore, seeking treatment at the emergency room is generally more costly.
Dentists typically provide prompt appointments and can usually accommodate dental emergencies on the same day, ensuring timely and cost-effective care. Dentists are specifically trained to diagnose and treat dental emergencies, ensuring the best possible outcome for your oral health.
When to Visit the Emergency Room Instead
While visiting your dentist is typically the recommended course of action for a dental emergency, there are certain situations when a visit to the emergency room may be necessary. These include of you have:
- Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or other possibly life-threatening symptoms
- An incredibly high fever as the result of a tooth infection
- Uncontrolled bleeding
- A serious facial injury
- A broken jaw
How Can I Know Who to Visit?
Determining whether to visit the emergency room or your dentist’s office for a dental emergency can be challenging. While the emergency room can address immediate life-threatening concerns, it is essential to understand that dental issues require specialized care.
Your dentist can provide long-term solutions for bite problems, damaged restorations, and tooth replacements. They will also offer follow-up care to ensure your oral health is properly managed.
While it’s important to take preventive measures to avoid dental emergencies, they can still occur unexpectedly. By being equipped with the information provided above, you’ll have the knowledge to manage future dental emergencies effectively and seek the appropriate professional to restore your smile!
About the Practice
Dr. Francisca A. Sanchez and the dedicated team at FS Dental Arts are committed to providing exceptional oral healthcare to patients in New York City and the surrounding areas. With a focus on comfort and a compassionate approach, they ensure a stress-free dental experience while treating you with the utmost care and respect. In case of a dental emergency, they offer a comprehensive range of services to quickly address the situation and restore your smile to its optimal health. Schedule an appointment with FS Dental Arts’ or visit their website to learn more about the exceptional emergency services they offer.