Dental emergencies can happen without warning, leaving you in pain and unsure where to turn for help. While some situations require immediate medical attention at a hospital emergency room, many dental emergencies are best treated by an emergency dentist. Knowing the difference can help you receive the right care as quickly as possible.
Here’s when you should head to the ER and when you should call your dentist instead.
When the ER is the Right Choice
Although emergency rooms are not typically equipped to provide definitive dental treatment, they are the best option if your dental emergency involves a serious medical issue.
Go to the emergency room immediately if you experience:
- Uncontrolled bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure.
- Significant facial swelling that makes it difficult to breathe or swallow.
- A serious facial injury, such as a suspected broken jaw.
- A high fever accompanied by swelling and severe dental pain.
- Trauma involving loss of consciousness or other life-threatening injuries.
These situations may require emergency medical care before any dental treatment can begin.
When You Should Call an Emergency Dentist
Many dental emergencies can be treated more effectively by a dentist than by an emergency room physician. Emergency dentists have the specialized tools and training needed to diagnose and treat problems affecting the teeth, gums, and supporting structures.
Contact your dentist as soon as possible if you have:
- A severe or persistent toothache.
- A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth.
- A knocked-out tooth.
- A lost filling or crown.
- A dental abscess that is causing localized swelling or pain.
- A broken denture or dental appliance that’s causing discomfort.
In many cases, receiving prompt dental care can save your tooth, relieve pain, and prevent the problem from becoming more serious.
What You Can Do Before Your Appointment
While you’re waiting to see your dentist, there are a few steps you can take to protect your smile.
Rinse your mouth gently with warm water to keep the area clean. If a tooth has been knocked out, handle it only by the crown, not the root, and try placing it back into the socket if possible. If that isn’t an option, store the tooth in milk or saliva and seek immediate dental care.
A cold compress can help reduce swelling, and over-the-counter pain relievers may ease discomfort when taken as directed. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums, as it can irritate the soft tissues.
Dental emergencies are stressful, but understanding where to seek care can make all the difference. If you’re experiencing a life-threatening condition, severe facial trauma, or difficulty breathing, don’t hesitate to visit the emergency room. For most other dental emergencies, contacting your emergency dentist is the fastest way to receive the specialized treatment you need.
About the Author
Dr. Robert A. Whitmore has more than 35 years of experience practicing dentistry. He earned his dental doctorate at the Baylor School of Dentistry and still pursues continuing education to keep his skillset sharp and stay abreast of the latest developments and techniques in his field. Dr. Whitmore also volunteers his time and talents as an active board member with Dental Health Arlington, a nonprofit that provides preventive and pain-relieving dental services to low-income residents while also educating kids about good oral hygiene habits. If you’ve suffered a dental emergency, book an appointment now online or call our Arlington office at (817) 468-1212.