Should You Go to the ER for a Dental Emergency?

From a damaged or knocked-out tooth to an injury to the tongue, gums, lips, or jaw, there are several kinds of accidents that warrant an emergency dental visit. Dental emergencies always strike when you least expect them, and it can be difficult to know where to go to receive treatment. So you know what to do if you ever end up in this situation, read on to learn about if you should seek treatment from a dentist or go to an ER for a dental emergency.

Why You Should Visit the Dentist Instead of the ER

Though the medical professionals working in hospitals have several years of training and firsthand experience helping patients in emergency situations, ERs don’t usually have a dentist on staff. They can help stop the bleeding if there is any and can make you feel more comfortable, but it’s best to see a dentist instead.

Even if an emergency room is able to treat you, you will likely experience long wait times that may allow the issue to worsen. Dentists often offer prompt, same-day appointments for those experiencing dental emergencies. Visits to the emergency room are also generally much more expensive than trips to the dentist.

When to Visit the Emergency Room Instead

Though visiting your dentist is usually the best option in the event of a dental emergency, there are a few situations where you should go to the ER instead, such as:

• You’re worried that your life is in danger (trouble breathing, issues swallowing, etc.)
• You have a very high fever as the result of a tooth infection
• You have significant facial injuries
• You’re bleeding uncontrollably
• Your jaw is broken

How to Know Who to Visit

If you visit a hospital while experiencing a dental emergency, the staff will do what they can to keep things from becoming life-threatening. Even so, they won’t be able to fix bite problems or replace damaged teeth. so, even if you go to the emergency room, you will still need to see your dentist for follow-up care and to have your smile repaired.

Though it’s best to do what you can to avoid dental emergencies, that doesn’t mean you’ll never experience one. With the above information, you’ll be able to get any future dental emergencies under control and visit the right person to fix your grin!

About the Practice

Dental Essentials of Rocky Hill is led by Drs. Julia Karpman, Marc Scoles, and Matthew Scoles. Their highly skilled team of Rocky Hill oral health professionals administers effective treatments that can help patients maintain beautiful beams. They also offer emergency dental services to repair unexpected damage to teeth, jaws, restorations, gums, lips, and tongues. Before you know it, your smile will be as good as new! Ready to set up an appointment or want more information on their emergency dental services? If so, call Dental Essentials of Rocky Hill’s office at (860) 563-3766 or visit their website to get started.