Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them, and they often occur when it’s least convenient! That said, if something serious happens to your mouth and you need to see an emergency dentist, what should you do to find one quickly? After all, failing to seek treatment usually leads to some pretty painful consequences! Here’s the fastest way to find an emergency dentist when you need one ASAP and some tips for managing your discomfort in the meantime.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
Dental emergencies are typically painful, sudden, and traumatic situations that necessitate immediate attention. Some common examples include chipped veneers or teeth, lost crowns or other restorations, knocked-out or dislodged teeth, severe toothaches, and more. Some dental emergencies can result in potentially life-threatening conditions such as difficulty breathing or uncontrollable bleeding; in these cases, you should call 9-1-1 or visit an emergency room as soon as possible.
How Can I Quickly Find an Emergency Dentist?
With any dental emergency, contacting an emergency dentist promptly should be priority number one. In most cases, time is of the essence, and your tooth’s fate depends on your ability to act quickly! Here are some steps you can follow to quickly find an emergency dentist and schedule an appointment:
- Contact your primary dentist by phone and inform them of the situation; if your dentist’s office offers emergency dentistry, they will let you know when to come in. They might also provide you with an urgent care number for quicker treatment, if necessary. If it’s after-hours and you get their voicemail, it might provide additional instructions or direct you elsewhere.
- If your dentist does not offer emergency dentistry, you’re far away from your dentist’s office, or you don’t have a regular dentist, you should seek a local practitioner by checking online. Most emergency dentists have time built into their schedules to treat patients, so quickly reach out to a nearby emergency dentist, and inform them of your predicament.
- If you’re experiencing a worst-case scenario, your only option might be seeking treatment at an emergency room. Even though this isn’t ideal, as most emergency rooms lack the equipment or staff to deal with dental emergencies, they might be able to provide you with painkillers or antibiotics that can at least reduce your symptoms.
What Should I Do Until My Emergency Dental Visit?
Whether you’re scrambling to get in touch with a dentist or trying to manage your pain in the hours before your appointment, you should know that there are a few things you can do to cope with your discomfort:
- Use an ice pack/cold compress to reduce swelling and numb the affected area.
- Rinse your mouth gently with a mixture of salt and water to help prevent infection.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
If you or a loved one has sustained a mouth injury, don’t panic! Dental emergencies can be scary, but a little quick thinking and contacting an emergency dentist will ensure that your smile isn’t jeopardized.
About the Practice
Magnolia Family Dentistry of Austin proudly serves patients and families in the Austin, TX area under the leadership of Dr. Molly Burton. Dr. Burton received her dental doctorate from the University of Louisville and has taken countless hours of continuing education, including Kois Center courses in Seattle, and she is an active member of the local Spear Study Club. Her practice is pleased to offer several available services including emergency dentistry. If you or a loved one is suffering from a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment by phone: (512) 441-2098.