Oh no, your tooth fell out! You scramble for your phone, ready to call the ER and rush over, when you realize something. Since this emergency involves your teeth, does that mean you should contact your dentist? Or was your first instinct correct?
Those are two very valid questions! It can be hard to know how different medical practices are related, especially when you’re in somewhat of a panic. For most dental emergencies, however, it’s best to dial your dentist’s phone number. Keep reading to learn why.
It’s All About Resources
The main reason it’s often best to see your dentist for problems like a knocked-out tooth or dental pain is that most emergency rooms don’t have the proper resources. That includes staff and equipment. Now, if you happen to know that your ER does have a qualified dentist and specialized tools, then it’s probably fine to visit their facility instead of your dentist’s office. Just know that this doesn’t necessarily mean your treatment will be faster.
Time and Money
On any given day, the odds of an ER being busier than your dentist’s office are pretty good. Of course, that’s not to say that your dentist doesn’t work hard! ERs simply treat a wider range of medical problems, which generally means more patients. Even if your ER has the resources to be able to handle dental emergencies, you could end up waiting longer to be seen than if you had gone to your dentist’s.
If your ER doesn’t have the proper resources, they’ll treat any immediate pain but will ultimately refer you to a local dentist. Your health and wellness is more important than money, but it’s worth keeping in mind that this would mean paying for two appointments instead of just one.
Is There Ever a Time I Should Go to The ER Instead?
Yes! If you have oral bleeding that hasn’t stopped after about five minutes, suspect you may have broken bones, or can’t reach your dentist but need urgent care, then you should absolutely go to the ER.
Think of it this way: your dentist is essentially a medical specialist. They have everything they need to be able to handle specific oral problems like gum disease, cavities, and damaged restorations or teeth. When it comes to general injuries or providing stabilization, though, an ER is your best option.
If you’re ever not sure which type of medical professional you should see for your dental emergency, go ahead and give your dentist a call. After explaining your situation over the phone, they can tell you whether you need urgent care or can arrange for an emergency appointment at their office. So try not to panic, and know that you’ll be taken care of!
About the Practice
At Aesthetic & Family Dentistry of Washington, our experienced and compassionate team of dentists will provide quality treatment for your dental emergency! We accept same-day emergency appointments and will do our best to see you as soon as possible. You can expect to receive a prompt and accurate diagnosis, along with gentle care and a comprehensive explanation of your treatment options. To contact our office, call 202-364-8989.