Knowing when to seek emergency dental care and when to go to the emergency room (ER) can be very important. Sometimes, a dental problem needs quick attention from a dentist, while other times, it might be better to go to the ER. Understanding the difference can help you get the right care at the right time.
When to Seek Emergency Dental Care
Emergency dental care is for serious dental problems that need to be treated right away. Here are some situations when you should see an emergency dentist:
1. Severe Toothache:
- If you have a toothache that is very painful and doesn’t go away, you should see a dentist. This could be a sign of a serious problem, like an infection or a cavity that has reached the nerve of the tooth.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth:
- If a tooth gets knocked out, you need to see a dentist as soon as possible. If you can, try to put the tooth back in its socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, put the tooth in a container of milk or saliva and go to the dentist immediately. Acting quickly can sometimes save the tooth.
3. Broken or Chipped Tooth:
- If you break or chip a tooth, especially if it’s painful or has sharp edges that could cut your mouth, you should see a dentist right away. They can fix the tooth and prevent further damage.
4. Lost Filling or Crown:
- If a filling or crown falls out, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Without the filling or crown, your tooth is more vulnerable to damage and infection.
5. Abscess or Infection:
- An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by an infection in or around the tooth. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and fever. An abscess needs immediate attention from a dentist to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading.
6. Severe Gum Bleeding:
- If your gums are bleeding a lot and it doesn’t stop, you should see a dentist. This could be a sign of gum disease or another serious condition.
When to Go to the ER
Some dental problems are so serious that you should go to the ER instead of the dentist. Here are some situations when you should go to the ER:
1. Severe Injury to the Mouth or Face:
- If you have a serious injury to your mouth or face, such as from a car accident or a fall, you should go to the ER. They can treat injuries to your face, jaw, or head, which might be more serious than just dental problems.
2. Uncontrollable Bleeding:
- If you have bleeding in your mouth that won’t stop, go to the ER. This could be a sign of a serious problem, and you might need immediate medical treatment.
3. Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing:
- If a dental problem is causing swelling that makes it hard to breathe or swallow, go to the ER right away. This can be life-threatening, and you need immediate help.
4. High Fever with Dental Pain:
- If you have a high fever along with dental pain, it could be a sign of a serious infection that has spread. You should go to the ER to get it treated as soon as possible.
If you’re not sure where to go, you can call your dentist or a medical professional for advice. They can help you decide the best place to get the care you need.