When you’re hit with sudden, debilitating dental pain, your first instinct is likely to find the fastest relief possible. For many people, that leads to a difficult question: Do I head to the nearest ER or call a local emergency dentist?
Making the wrong decision can result in a massive medical bill without actually solving the dental problem. Here is how to determine the right way to handle your dental emergency in Justin, TX.
The Reality of the ER for Dental Emergencies
Most emergency rooms are equipped to handle life-threatening traumas, but usually aren’t staffed with dentists who perform restorative procedures or root canals. While hospitals will have oral surgeons on staff, they typically only handle life-threating dental issues and trauma. If you go to an ER for a toothache, you may experience the following triage:
- Verify you aren’t in immediate medical danger.
- Provide a prescription for antibiotics or pain relief.
- Refer you back to an emergency dentist to actually fix the tooth.
If you experience any of these life-threatening symptoms, you should head to the nearest emergency room right away:
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Severe swelling that is affecting your breathing or swallowing.
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High fever or chills accompanying a facial infection.
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Suspected broken jaw or significant facial trauma.
Why an Emergency Dentist near Justin, TX is a Better Option
For almost every other scenario, an emergency dentist is the faster, more affordable, and more effective choice. Dental offices have the specialized tools, techniques, and doctors on staff to perform root canals, extractions, or crown repairs on the spot.
Go to an emergency dentist in Justin, TX if you have:
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A tooth that was knocked out or is visibly loose.
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A chipped, cracked, fractured, or broken tooth.
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Severe, throbbing pain that suggests an infection.
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A lost crown or bridge that may or may not be causing extreme sensitivity.
What Symptoms May Indicate a Dental Emergency?
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Severe, Throbbing Pain- If the pain is persistent, radiates into your jaw, or prevents you from sleeping, it can indicate an abscess or an infected nerve. This requires a professional diagnosis and oftentimes requires a root canal or extraction.
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Significant Facial or Gum Swelling- Swelling is a red flag for infection. If the swelling is localized to the gums or the side of your face, a dentist needs to drain the infection and prescribe the correct antibiotics. (Note: If swelling begins to close your eye or affect your breathing, visit an ER right away).
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A Fractured or Cracked Tooth – A deep crack can leave the sensitive pulp of your tooth exposed. This not only causes intense pain but opens a direct pathway for bacteria to enter your bloodstream.
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Bleeding That Won’t Stop- Persistent bleeding after a DIY dental mishap or an injury needs to be addressed professionally to ensure the structural integrity of your gums and jaw.
Make An Informed Decision
If you are in pain and aren’t sure where to go, the safest first step is to call your local dental office. We can triage your symptoms over the phone and determine if you need to be seen immediately or if an emergency room visit is recommended. If you are experiencing any life-threating symptoms, always go to your nearest ER right away!
Experiencing dental pain? Contact us now to make an appointment and get the relief you need.