When you have a sudden and severe health issue, you’d usually visit an emergency room. That’s certainly the right response for things like broken bones, failing organs, and such. Even so, you may wonder: Should you visit an ER for a dental emergency? Your Sunnyvale dental practice is here to say that you shouldn’t. As for the reason, it’s not hard to grasp; just keep reading to learn why ERs aren’t good for dental emergencies and why to see a dentist instead.
Context: What are Dental Emergencies?
For the sake of context, it’s best to know the basics of dental emergencies. Why ERs aren’t suited to treating them won’t make sense otherwise.
Dental emergencies are dental-related problems that require urgent care. In most cases, they stem from injuries (i.e., falls, collisions, etc.), bad oral habits, and poor oral hygiene. These issues also compromise a patient’s oral health unless they receive adequate treatment.
To give some examples, common dental emergencies include:
- Severe Toothaches
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Cracked, Broken, or Knocked-Out Teeth
- Damaged Restorations (i.e., crowns, fillings, etc.)
- Painful Facial Swelling
- Bleeding or Aching Gums
ERs Don’t Offer Urgent Oral Care
Emergency rooms can handle all sorts of health problems. However, you shouldn’t visit one for help with a dental emergency; it won’t fully address your issue.
An average ER isn’t equipped to treat the causes of dental emergencies. Its staff doesn’t have the necessary certifications or skills, as they aren’t oral health experts. The most it could do is provide antibiotics or painkillers that offer some short-term relief for your mouth. Otherwise, the attending doctors and nurses can’t fix your smile’s underlying condition.
Adding insult to injury, an ER charges more than a standard dental visit. Going to one means spending a considerable amount on merely temporary aid. Needless to say, that isn’t an ideal outcome.
Why You Should See a Dentist
To fix a dental emergency, you should always see a local dentist. They have the knowledge, resources, and tools to perform urgent oral care.
Don’t forget that dentists are the premier oral health experts. Thanks to years of education and training, they have a thorough grasp of dental emergencies – their causes, their solutions, etc. You can always trust a qualified one to provide the urgent help your grin needs, all without “breaking the bank.”
Visiting an ER for a dental emergency won’t benefit you in the long run. With that said, see your local dental provider for the proper assistance.
About the Practice
Sunnyvale Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is based in Sunnyvale, CA. Led by Dr. Lakshmy Sudeep, our practice takes great pride in its comprehensive and family-friendly dentistry. Whether you’re a child or a senior, we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative treatments tailored to your smile. Our team is also trained and well-equipped to handle various dental emergencies. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (408)-547-9101.