You’d probably think of going to your hospital’s emergency room in a medical emergency. That’s an appropriate response to take in most situations. However, a dental emergency is a bit different. Should the latter occur, it’d be best to see your local emergency dentist at their office.
Want to know what’s involved in an emergency dental visit? Read on to learn four things you should expect from the experience.
#1: A Same-Day Appointment
Many emergency dentists offer same-day appointments for urgent cases like knocked-out teeth. As you’re scheduling the time, some will even suggest advice on managing the situation until you reach the practice. On the other hand, they may recommend you wait to visit if the issue is just a chipped or cracked tooth. Whatever the case, they’ll encourage you to see them soon and begin preparing for your arrival.
Dental emergencies are usually time-sensitive, so your dentist will make your check-in quick and effortless.
#2: A Quick-Yet-Efficient Exam
After your check-in, the dentist will perform a quick emergency exam to address your discomfort. As such, they’ll primarily focus on the problem area and may include X-rays of the region.
In this examination, your dental care provider will look for signs of concern like gum inflammation or infection. They’ll also watch out for exposed nerves. Once they’ve determined the complication, they’ll review your treatment options and give you an accurate cost estimate.
#3: Possible Dental Sedation
If your dental emergency is very painful, your dentist may suggest dental sedation to you. That way, they can give you more extensive help without causing unnecessary pain or anxiety.
One example of the process would be nitrous oxide sedation. In this approach, you would inhale a gas called nitrous oxide before treatment, which would relax you and help later procedures go more smoothly.
#4: A Restored Smile
In urgent cases, your dentist should be able to solve your tooth or gum pain with little trouble. They might do so in just a single appointment. They could alternatively give you antibiotics for an infection or abscess, so you’ll be ready for another visit later.
Whatever the case, they will treat the root of the problem as quickly as possible. That way, you can get back to your day-to-day life sooner.
A large hospital isn’t necessarily the best place to treat your sudden tooth or gum issue. Instead, trust that your emergency dentist can resolve the matter with prompt and effective treatment.
About the Practice
RiverPlace Dental is based in Portland, OR. Led by the excellent Dr. Megan McInnis, their team provides high-quality dental treatment in a spa-like atmosphere. Offering preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services, they strive to give their patients the best smile possible. That even includes helping out with potential dental emergencies! For more information or to schedule an appointment, they can be reached at their website or by phone at (503)-761-1414.