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Should I Go to the ER for a Dental Emergency?

February 4, 2022

Filed under: Uncategorized — robertgraffeo @ 7:51 pm
Should I Go to the ER for a Dental Emergency?

If you’ve ever been faced with a dental emergency, you understand the level of stress in addition to the pain you are feeling. When you’re experiencing a great deal of discomfort and don’t know where to go, it is understandable why someone would rush straight to the emergency room instead of seeing their dentist for urgent care. Continue reading to learn more about where you should go if you are experiencing a dental emergency and why your emergency dentist in Hoboken is usually the right answer over the ER.

When Does Dental Pain Require an ER Visit?

Any emergency involving trauma to your face and mouth that requires immediate attention is usually best handled at the hospital. If you have a serious cut or laceration, a broken or dislocated jaw, or an infection that is very swollen and affecting your ability to breathe or swallow, you should either head to the emergency room or call 911. In a situation that could be life-threatening, the hospital is the best place to be.

When Is My Dentist the Person to Count on in an Emergency Situation?

When dealing with a dental emergency that is not life-threatening but still requires immediate care, the best thing to do is call your dentist. They are equipped to handle any of the following:

  • Lost or damaged restorations
  • Oral abscesses
  • Partially dislodged teeth
  • Broken teeth
  • Knocked-out teeth
  • Cracked or chipped teeth
  • Severe toothaches

Why Is the Dentist Often Your Best Option?

When it comes to receiving dental care, even in an emergency situation, a dentist is the most qualified option. Not only are they the best person to deal with a wide variety of oral health issues, but you are also allowing others who need immediate medical attention to get faster treatment without overwhelming the emergency room staff.

Many people don’t realize that in most states, it is illegal for anyone other than a dentist to perform restorative dental care, fill cavities, or pull teeth. Most emergency rooms don’t have a dentist on call either. They can’t do much more than rule out imminent life-threatening conditions and prescribe you antibiotics and painkillers for temporary relief. In the end, you will most likely need to head to the dentist for treatment at some point.

If you’re experiencing a dental emergency, chances are that the ER is not your best option. Instead, give your dentist in Hoboken a call and explain your situation. They will be happy to give you advice and help your smile get back on track!

About the Author

Dr. Robert Graffeo has been helping the smiles of his patients reach their full potential for more than 25 years. He earned his dental doctorate from New York University. He remains committed to continuing education to stay current in the dental field, and that includes learning via the prestigious Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute, as well as SPEAR Education. If you ever find yourself in the unfortunate position of requiring an emergency dentist, Dr. Graffeo offers extended office hours and is committed to seeing you as soon as possible. Make an appointment on his website or by calling (201) 683-3531.

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