What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?
Patients often wonder if their situation is truly a dental emergency. This typically involve significant pain, trauma, or an issue that, if left untreated, could worsen. Some common dental emergencies include:
- Severe toothaches that disrupt eating, sleeping, or daily activities
- Knocked-out or loosened teeth due to trauma
- Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth
- Swollen gums or abscesses that cause intense pain
- Lost fillings, crowns, or dental restorations
- Injuries to the mouth or jaw
If you’re experiencing any of the above, it’s important to contact us right away. Our team at your Moore County general dental office, will do everything possible to schedule you for a same-day appointment.
Should You Go to the ER?
It’s common to panic during a dental emergency, but not all dental issues require a trip to the emergency room. While the ER can provide temporary relief, they are not equipped to handle most dental problems permanently.
When to Visit the ER
In certain situations, a trip to the ER may be necessary, such as:
- A knocked-out tooth that may need immediate attention to save it
- Severe pain preventing you from eating, sleeping, or functioning normally
- Broken or dislodged braces causing cuts in the mouth or throat
- Large abscesses that may require immediate drainage
- Facial trauma, such as a broken jaw or fractured facial bones
If you’re ever in doubt and cannot reach our office, visit your nearest ER or urgent care facility to ensure your safety.
Why Avoid the ER for Dental Issues When Possible
While emergency departments are vital for life-threatening conditions, they are not the ideal place for dental care. Here’s why:
- High Costs: ER visits can be expensive, especially without insurance, and often provide only temporary solutions.
- Limited Dental Expertise: ER doctors can treat pain and infection but do not have the tools or training to perform permanent dental procedures.
- Temporary Relief: You may receive pain medication or antibiotics, but you’ll still need to visit a dentist to address the root of the problem.
At Kuhn Dental Associates, we have the expertise, tools, and technology to diagnose and treat dental emergencies effectively, saving you time, stress, and money.
Same-Day Emergency Dental Appointments
Our team understands the urgency of dental emergencies, which is why we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible. Here’s what you can expect during your emergency visit:
- Immediate Evaluation: We will quickly assess your situation to determine the cause of your pain or discomfort.
- Pain Relief: Our priority is to relieve your pain and stabilize the problem.
- Treatment Options: Once we address the immediate issue, we’ll discuss your treatment options for permanent restoration.
If dental anxiety is a concern, we offer sedation dentistry to help you feel calm and comfortable during your appointment.
How to Handle a Dental Emergency Before Your Appointment
Here are some tips for managing common dental emergencies until you can see us:
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Keep the tooth moist by placing it in milk or holding it in your mouth. Avoid touching the root and contact us immediately.
- Severe Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm water and gently floss to remove any trapped food. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums.
- Broken or Chipped Tooth: Save any broken pieces and rinse your mouth with warm water. Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Lost Crown or Filling: Use dental cement (available at pharmacies) to temporarily hold the crown in place or cover the tooth.
- Abscess or Swelling: Rinse with warm salt water to help reduce bacteria and swelling.
