A dental emergency can be scary — you should do everything you can to address the situation as quickly as possible! Part of that includes seeking care from an emergency dentist. But how can you find a dentist who is able to treat you in a timely manner, and what should you do in the meantime? Continue reading to discover helpful information that will assist you as you navigate your dental emergency.
Search for an Emergency Dentist
Most dental practices and oral surgery practices are able to arrange their schedule to see emergency patients on a same-day basis, so do not hesitate to call and ask for an appointment. To find a dentist who can see you right away, do a Google search for “Emergency dentist in [city].” Take a quick look at your options, and choose one that is in a convenient location and that has good reviews. It would also be good to visit a dentist who offers sedation so you know you will be comfortable during your treatment.
What If Your Emergency Is After Hours?
Unfortunately, dental emergencies do not always happen during regular business hours. If your situation arises during a weekend or evening, do not panic. You can probably leave a message on your dentist’s phone, and they will return your call as soon as they are able.
In the meantime, you should take steps to manage your condition. Here are some general tips that may reduce your pain and minimize the risk of further damage to your smile:
- Eat a soft diet that requires little to no chewing.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as necessary.
- Use a cold compress to control swelling.
- Regularly rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Try to keep your mouth clean, but be very gentle when you are brushing and flossing around a damaged tooth.
Should You Visit the Hospital Emergency Room?
In most cases, hospital emergency rooms are not equipped to handle dental emergencies. In some cases, they might be able to provide pain medication, but beyond that, there may be little they can do.
Of course, there are some exceptions. You should head to the ER right away if:
- Severe swelling is restricting your ability to breathe.
- You are bleeding uncontrollably.
- You have a broken or dislocated jaw.
- You have a dental infection along with a high fever.
After the ER performs preliminary treatment, you can visit a dentist later for follow-up care.
A dental emergency deserves prompt treatment! The advice in this article may help you get the care you need as soon as possible.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Sheng Ji is a highly accomplished oral surgeon in the Carmichael, CA, area. He and our team are often able to see emergency patients on a same-day basis, so do not hesitate to get in touch if you are in need of urgent care. We offer multiple types of sedation so we can provide comfortable treatment. To learn more about us and our emergency services, call our office at 916-961-1902.