The Emergency Room is not for Dental Care

Posted on 12/16/2024 by Premier Dental

patient and dentist shown talking during an exam with patient pointing at her mouth

Have you ever experienced a dental emergency? A sudden, intense toothache, a chipped tooth, or a lost filling can be alarming and painful. In the moment, you might feel like rushing to the nearest emergency room (ER) for immediate help. However, it's important to understand that the ER is not the best place for most dental emergencies.

Why the ER is not the ideal place for dental care

Emergency rooms are designed to handle life-threatening situations, such as heart attacks, strokes, and severe injuries. While some dental emergencies can be serious, they rarely require the level of immediate care provided by an ER. Additionally, ERs are typically not equipped to handle specialized dental procedures. They may not have the necessary tools or expertise to address your specific dental issue.

Where to go for dental emergencies

If you're experiencing a dental emergency, here are some better options:

•	Call your dentist. Most dentists reserve time in their schedule for emergencies. Explain your situation and they will likely be able to see you quickly.
•	Visit an urgent care center. Many urgent care centers can handle basic dental emergencies, such as toothaches, chipped teeth, and minor infections.
•	Consider a 24-hour dental clinic. These clinics are specifically designed to handle dental emergencies and are open around the clock.

What to do before seeking care

Before seeking care for your dental emergency, consider the following:

•	Gather your dental records. This will help the dentist understand your dental history and provide the best possible care.
•	Take over-the-counter pain medication. This can help manage the pain until you can see a dentist.
•	Apply a cold compress to the affected area. This can help reduce swelling and inflammation.

When to go to the ER for a dental emergency

While the ER is not the best place for most dental emergencies, there are some situations where it may be necessary:

•	Severe facial swelling that makes it difficult to breathe.
•	Uncontrolled bleeding that cannot be stopped.
•	A severe allergic reaction to a medication or dental material.
•	Trauma to the mouth that may involve broken bones or other serious injuries.

Conclusion

Remember, the ER is not the ideal place for most dental emergencies. If you're experiencing a dental emergency, call your dentist, visit an urgent care center, or consider a 24-hour dental clinic. By choosing the right place for care, you can get the help you need quickly and efficiently.

Bells
Office

(731) 663-9999

7019 US-412
Bells, TN 38006

Hours:
Mon: 11am - 6pm
Tue: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

Jackson
Office

(731) 300-3000

80 Exeter Rd
Jackson, TN 38305

Hours:
Mon: 7am - 7pm
Tue: 7am - 7pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: 8am - 3pm
Sat & Sun: Closed

Milan
Office

(731) 613-2800

14029 S 1st St
Milan, TN 38358

Hours:
Mon: 11am - 6pm
Tue: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: By appt
Sat & Sun: Closed

Lexington Office

(731) 617-9818

689 W Church St, Lexington, TN 38351

Hours:
Mon: 11am - 6pm
Tue: 8am - 5pm
Wed: 9am - 5pm
Thu: 7am - 2pm
Fri: Closed
Sat & Sun: Closed

About | Premier Dental Center - Bells, Jackson, & Milan, TN
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Premier Dental, 80 Exeter Rd, Jackson, TN 38305 / 731-300-3000 / premdent.com / 1/31/2025 / Related Phrases: Dentist Bells Jackson Milan Lexington /