Should You Go to the ER for a Dental Emergency?

Dealing with a dental emergency can be both distressing and painful, impacting your ability to work, sleep, and eat. Knowing whether to seek help from your dentist or head to the emergency room is crucial for getting the right care. Read on to discover when you should see a dentist for immediate treatment and when visiting the emergency room might be the better choice.

Why You Should Visit the Dentist Instead of the ER

Emergency rooms are equipped to handle urgent medical situations, but they typically do not have dental professionals on staff. While they can offer temporary relief for issues like bleeding or pain, they are not a substitute for the specialized care provided by a dentist.

Emergency rooms also tend to have longer wait times, which could worsen your dental issue. Additionally, dental care at an emergency room is usually more expensive than receiving treatment directly from your dentist.

Dentists usually provide quick appointments and can often handle dental emergencies on the same day, ensuring you receive prompt and affordable care. Their specialized training enables them to accurately diagnose and treat dental issues, delivering the best possible outcomes for your oral health.

When to Visit the Emergency Room Instead

Although seeing your dentist is usually the best option for dental emergencies, there are cases where an emergency room visit is warranted. These situations include:

• Life-threatening symptoms, such as trouble breathing or swallowing
• A very high fever resulting from a tooth infection
• Uncontrollable bleeding
• A serious facial injury
• A broken jaw

How Can I Know Who to Visit?

Choosing between the emergency room and your dentist for a dental emergency can be challenging. The emergency room is equipped to address urgent, life-threatening conditions, but dental issues often need specialized care.

Your dentist is best suited to handle long-term solutions for problems like bite issues, damaged restorations, and tooth replacements. They also provide thorough follow-up care to ensure your oral health is properly managed.

Although taking preventive steps can reduce the risk of dental emergencies, they can still occur unexpectedly. With the information provided, you’ll be better prepared to handle dental emergencies effectively and seek the right professional care to restore your smile.

About the Practice

Farmington Valley Dental, led by Dr. Thomas G. Peters, offers exceptional dental care in the Farmington area, where he has been a valued community member for over 43 years. Dr. Peters and his team are dedicated to ensuring a comfortable and compassionate dental experience, focusing on both the health and aesthetics of your smile. They provide a wide range of services to address dental emergencies promptly and effectively. For appointments or to learn more about their emergency care, call Farmington Valley Dental at (860) 677-8500 or visit their website.