Dental emergencies can happen where you need a dentist immediately to relieve pain and perhaps something more like saving a tooth. Many dentists include emergency dentistry as part of their services but how it is used can be confusing to some.
The Purpose of Emergency Dentistry
Emergency dentistry comes with the primary purpose of pain relief. It can include other aspects but the idea is to help reduce pain until you see your regular dentist. This can help you get a good night’s sleep and function until you get to your appointment, which could be the next day or a few days away.
In some cases, emergency dentistry can save teeth, gums, or jawbone where there has been a sports injury or some other accident. Going to a dentist for this type of work not only gains you a specialist in teeth and gums but means you aren’t spending time and money on an emergency room visit.
Who Gets Emergency Dentistry?
Anyone who is a patient of a particular dentist can get emergency dentistry from that dentist. That is why it’s always beneficial to have a regular dentist. Plus, a dental practice that sees your family regularly is going to have all your records for the emergency dentist and that will make treatment easier.
Dental practices handle emergency dentistry in different ways depending on the size of the practice and the number of staff. Some are open in the office 24 hours while others have extended hours. Almost all have an emergency number to call after hours where the dentist on call can meet you at the practice in an emergency.
Who Pays for Emergency Dentistry?
Those with insurance will likely have emergency dentistry covered, although every insurance policy is different so you will need to check. There could be a copayment or deductible that may be due at the time of appointment. Some dental offices have options for paying that so check with your dental staff regarding billing.
Definition of Emergency Dental Need
Understanding when dental needs become an emergency is where many people get confused. A dental emergency is when the pain is so intense that you can’t wait for an appointment. The reason for the pain doesn’t matter. It could be a severe cavity or a sports injury.
Those who have swollen gums or jaws, a tooth knocked loose or out, bleeding, or intense pain should seek emergency dentistry.
A dental emergency isn’t to be used strictly for convenience. Dentists offer extended hours and convenient scheduling to accommodate most with complicated schedules. Use those features to arrange for things like exams or routine procedures.
Procedures that can be done by your regular dentist without risk to your oral or physical health will be done at a followup appointment rather than during your emergency dental visit.
What Happens in Emergency Dentistry?
Every case is different but the typical routine for emergency dentistry is to get an X-ray and an exam. An X-ray tells the dentist the extent of the problem. The dentist may then examine your mouth to gain further clarification. The procedures after that depend on the damage.
Treating infections may include prescribing an antibiotic that will reduce it until you get to the dentist for further treatment. An injury may involve stitches or some other procedure. The procedures done in emergency dentistry are going to be minimal to relieve pain and save teeth or gums. However, emergency dentistry could include something like surgery if required to save a tooth, ease pain, or protect the mouth from further infection. It will be up to your dentist to follow up with treatments like root canals or fixing damaged teeth.
About Emergency Dentists
Dentists handling emergency cases are just as competent, educated, and experienced as other dentists in the practice. Many times, dentists rotate out emergency dentistry duties depending on their partnership or contract. They all have the same standard of education and certifications so you will always get an emergency dentist that can handle any problem.
It pays for you to understand the specific procedures of getting emergency dentistry before needing them. Call us today and find out about our procedures, billing, and your insurance so you are prepared should you ever need emergency dentistry for yourself or your family members.