In most cases, you’d visit an emergency room if you have an urgent medical issue. That’s only natural – an ER’s staff is well-trained and can handle many injuries and health problems. However, you should take a different approach when the issue is a dental emergency. The best response in that case is to quickly see your local dentist for a solid treatment. As for the reason, here’s a primer on why you shouldn’t visit an ER for a dental emergency.
What Happens in a Dental Emergency?
Before going forward, take time to review just what dental emergencies are. Doing so provides context and shows why ERs aren’t always a good fit.
In essence, dental emergencies are any dental issues needing immediate care. They often result from injuries (especially falls and collisions), poor oral hygiene, and bad oral habits. When they occur, they greatly threaten your oral health until (or unless) they get proper treatment.
Some of the most common dental emergencies are things like:
- Severe Toothaches
- Damaged Restorations (i.e., crowns, fillings, etc.)
- Cracked, Broken, or Knocked-Out Teeth
- Painful Facial Swelling
- Bleeding or Aching Gums
- Soft Tissue Injuries
ERs Aren’t Suited for Dental Emergencies
There’s no doubt that emergency rooms can treat all sorts of health problems. Even so, ERs just aren’t suited for helping patients with dental emergencies.
You see, ERs aren’t equipped to treat the causes of most dental emergencies. Their staff lacks the certifications and skills to fully address oral issues. At most, they could only provide you with antibiotics or painkillers – medicines that offer short-term relief from your problem. They can’t perform the sort of work that fixes your smile’s underlying trouble.
You should also note that ERs charge more than a standard dental treatment. Given that fact, visiting one would mean spending lots of money for temporary help. That outcome isn’t a wise use of funds.
Why See a Dentist Instead?
Rather than an ER, it’s best to see a dentist for dental emergencies. They have the power to address your urgent oral problems smoothly and easily.
The fact of the matter is that dentists are oral health experts. Thanks to years of training, they know the ins and outs of dental emergencies and how to solve them. You can trust them to get your smile back on track with the effective care you need. Best of all, they won’t charge a lot or “break the bank!”
Even if you’re tempted, please don’t visit an ER for a dental emergency. Just see your local dentist – they’ll ease your grin’s pain and help it heal!
About the Practice
Columbus Dental Arts is based in Columbus, NJ. Led by Drs. Maiorino and Fraser, our practice combines comprehensive dentistry with personalized care that suits your smile. Whether you need preventive, cosmetic, or restorative services, you can trust our team to have you covered. We’re even ready and well-equipped to handle dental emergencies as the need arises. For more details or to book a visit, please reach us on our website or by phone at (609)-324-9500.