Dental problems don’t always wait for regular hours. A sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or an injury to the mouth can all be signs that you need care right away. When something like this happens, it’s important to know what to expect during an emergency dental visit.
Most individuals look for emergency dentistry in West Roxbury when they are in pain or have suffered injury and require assistance promptly. If you’ve never had an emergency visit, understanding the process can make you more comfortable.
When Should You Get Emergency Care?
Not all dental issues are emergencies, but some must be addressed promptly. These include:
- A tooth that has been knocked out
- A cracked or chipped tooth that hurts
- A lost filling or crown
- Severe swelling in your face or mouth
- Bleeding that will not stop
- A toothache that is not going away
If you are not sure if your problem is an emergency, it is all right to call and ask. Acting quickly can usually save your tooth or prevent the problem from worsening.
Getting Ready for the Appointment
If you are headed to meet an emergency dentist near you, there are a few preparatory things that you can do. If available, bring dental records. Put down any drugs you’re currently taking. In case a tooth is knocked off, put the tooth in milk or keep it in your mouth to maintain wetness.
Getting there a few minutes early will allow you to complete the paperwork and allow the dental staff time to see your case. Even in an emergency, they’ll need some basic health information before beginning treatment.
The First Step: Exam and Evaluation
When you get there, the dental team will just take a glance at the issue. They might also ask how the problem began and whether you have had any symptoms such as pain, swelling, or bleeding. This assists them in knowing what is happening and determining what to do next.
In most emergency dentistry near you, X-rays are done to visualize the whole picture. This assists in locating hidden issues such as broken roots or infections below the gum level.
Standard Treatments During Emergency Visits
The treatment you receive is based on the nature of the problem you have. For instance:
- If the tooth is cracked or chipped, the dentist may smooth out the tooth or fill it.
- If your tooth was knocked out, they will attempt to put it back.
- For infections, they will drain the site or begin antibiotics.
- A tooth might have to be removed if the damage is too severe.
The objective is to eliminate pain and avoid further damage. Some procedures will be completed immediately, and others may require a second visit.
Managing Pain and Swelling
Pain is among the most common reasons individuals come in for emergency care. The dentist will attempt to alleviate the pain immediately, usually with local anesthesia to numb the area. Pain relief medication is also prescribed to take at home.
If there’s swelling, it might be because of an infection or trauma. Ice packs can provide temporary relief temporarily. In some instances, the dentist will prescribe you medication to reduce the swelling before further treatment.
What Happens After the Visit?
Following your emergency treatment, you’ll be provided with home instructions. These can include:
- What to eat or not eat
- How to tend to the treated area
- When to take medication
- Warning signs, such as increased pain or swelling
You might be told to return for additional treatment. This might involve putting a crown on, performing a root canal, or repairing the tooth more permanently. Always take instructions and visit follow-up appointments to ensure you heal correctly.
Precautions to Prevent Dental Emergencies
While not all emergencies can be avoided, here are a few tips to lower your risk:
- Brush and floss daily
- Visit your dentist regularly
- Don’t use your teeth to open packages
- Wear a mouthguard during sports
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice
Taking care of your teeth every day can help catch small issues before they turn into big problems.
Looking for Help in a Dental Emergency?
If you’re in a tight place and require care immediately, having a reliable dental team behind you is a good idea. At Nine One Dental Group, we stand by to assist you during emergencies. Whether it’s an unexpected toothache or a chipped tooth, our dentist in West Roxbury can assist you in returning to comfort and health as expediently as possible.