Everything an Emergency Dentist Does and More

Dental health is, beyond a doubt, one of the most critical components of an individual’s overall health. Regular expert check-ups are recommended by dentists to avoid the onset of dental diseases like cavities and plaque. But what happens when you are faced with an emergency? It is no secret that dental emergencies are painful and overwhelming. The easiest way to relieve in such situations is to see an emergency dentist.

Who Is an Emergency Dentist?

An emergency dentist has the same qualifications as a regular dentist and mostly does the same job, except they are trained to treat emergency situations. After certification and licensing following the completion of their bachelor's in dentistry, they train themselves and eventually open up their own practices. Reiterating what we just said, emergency dentists are best equipped to deal with dental emergencies.

Apart from providing services in their own offices, these professionals also take up calls to the ER.

What Do They Do?

Upon booking an appointment with an emergency dentist, the first thing you can expect to go through is an initial examination. During the examination, you will be asked to recount all your symptoms. Then, the dentist will administer appropriate treatment.

A lot of patients need to undergo specialized dental treatments like surgery, tooth extraction, or root canal. Here, the dentist will not perform the procedure right away. Instead, they will prescribe pain medication for immediate relief and book your appointment for the dental procedure.

Emergency dental care is only free if you have emergency dental insurance. Even then you must carry your family medical history and documental proof of insurance.

What Are Some Dental Emergencies?

Fractured or Chipped Tooth

If you ever fracture or chip your tooth, rinsing your mouth with warm salt water solution will help alleviate the pain along with cleaning your gums. In some cases, if you bring the broken piece of the tooth with you, the dentist might be able to reattach it.

Missing Crown

A missing crown is a common dental emergency among people with implants. Do note that just because it is common does not mean it is okay to leave it unaddressed. Missing crowns should be treated immediately.

Debilitating Toothache

Toothaches, too, are rather common. The condition may occur suddenly or gradually build up over time. It can be lived with, but the wise thing to do is to contact an emergency dentist at the earliest. A concerning majority of seemingly harmless toothaches are often indicative of a more severe underlying issue.

Bleeding Gums

Noticing blood when you brush your teeth or bite into some hard food are signs of bleeding gums. Bleeding gums are caused by tartar accumulation and a condition known as gingivitis. Don’t ignore your troubled gums lest they give way to more advanced gum and jaw diseases like periodontitis.

Knocked-Out Teeth

Abscession of a tooth due to an injury or accident qualifies for urgent dental care. If circumstances permit, store the knocked-out tooth submerged in a container full of milk and bring it to the dentist as soon as possible.

Exposed Nerves

Exposed nerves in your tooth are one of the most painful dental emergencies. Thankfully, treatment and pain management are easy to come by. Your emergency dentist will apply a desensitizing medication or fluoride gel to the affected area. Once the pain has subsided, you can proceed with the examination. Whatever gum or tooth disease that is then identified can be treated under the medical jurisdiction of the dentist.

World Class Dental Care Right at Your Doorstep

Comprehensive Family Dentistry, OKC is a collective of the state’s most well-trained dentists and oral surgeons. To schedule an appointment with us, visit our website. You can also drop us a call at the phone number listed on our contact page.

**Disclaimer: This content is not a professional dental or medical advice and does not imply a relationship between patient and care provider or the doctors.