Do ERs handle dental emergencies? Is it a wise decision to seek immediate medical attention as opposed to your local dentist? There is no clear answer for every situation, especially since where you should go is largely dependent on the type of injury you sustain. However, in most cases, you may be relieved to learn that spending hours in an ER lobby may not be the most effective way to get help. Keep reading to discover why it’s best to let your oral healthcare provider address your dental emergency.
Is Visiting the ER for a Dental Emergency Ever Necessary?
Yes, certain dental injuries require immediate attention from a medical professional – one that can be found at a local ER. These situations include:
- A broken or fractured jawbone
- Excessive swelling that keeps you from being able to breathe comfortably
- Continuous bleeding that does not stop after 10-15 minutes of applied pressure
These situations can become increasingly dangerous if timely care is not provided, which is why it’s best to visit the ER before seeing your emergency dentist for a follow-up.
Which Injuries Can Be Treated By a Dentist?
Dentists are equipped to handle most dental emergencies. Although some may be more time-sensitive than others, many professionals provide flexible schedules for those who may be experiencing a sudden dental crisis.
If you have sustained one of the following injuries, do not wait to reach out to your dental team for help:
- Chipped or cracked tooth
- Knocked-out tooth
- Lost dental crown or filling
- Broken dentures
- Tooth sensitivity
- Jaw pain
- Toothaches
- Loose permanent teeth
- Soft tissue laceration
Why Seeing a Dentist is Better Than Going to the ER
Your dentist is trained and licensed to administer appropriate care and treatment for all of the previously mentioned emergencies. This is not entirely true of those working in an ER. While a doctor can provide antibiotics and immediate pain relief, they cannot administer the kind of care that a trusted dentist can.
Not to mention, most ER lobbies are crowded, which means you’ll be sitting among those who are extremely sick for hours.
Why not avoid the crowds and make an appointment with your emergency dentist? This decision will not only save you time but unnecessary pain as well.
About the Author
Dr. Matthew Ricke is a trusted Raleigh dentist who completed his Doctor Dental Surgery degree from the University of Tennessee. After pursuing continuing education courses at some of the most prestigious institutions, he has become a certified Invisalign provider. At Lake Boone Dentistry, he and our team are here to provide timely care by providing flexible schedules for those experiencing a dental emergency. If you need help to address a lost dental crown or cracked tooth, visit our website or call (919) 781-8610.