Getting a proper diagnosis and finding relief as soon as possible is usually the top priority. Having an emergency dentist available to treat you when you need it the most can be a lifesaver.
While no one likes the pain of a toothache, many other dental emergencies are far more important. Here are the top 3 reasons you want to get to know an emergency dentist before you need one.
Limited Research Time
When you’re in the midst of a crisis, the last thing you want to do is worry about finding the right professional. You won’t have time to do research and ensure the person you’re considering has the skills you need.
Faster Treatment
Many types of trauma, including a motor-vehicle or sports accident, can cause severe dental damage. If a tooth is cracked or knocked out, getting proper treatment right away can mean the difference between saving or losing it.
Risk of Infection
A broken tooth is more than just an uncomfortable cosmetic incident. It also creates a risk of infection that can travel to your jaw, neck, and even your brain. Untreated tooth infections can lead to other serious health issues, including hepatitis, cancer, and heart disease. A reliable emergency dentist in Baton Rouge dentist can get you on antibiotics right away, significantly reducing potential side effects.
Most Common Dental Emergencies
At times, it’s hard to know whether you need emergency dental treatment or not. Some of the most common dental emergencies we see include:
- Cracked or chipped tooth
- Severe mouth pain
- Broken dentures
- Partially dislodged tooth
- Facial swelling
- Abscess
- Sports injuries and vehicle accidents
- Bleeding and trauma
- Severe damage to the tongue, cheeks, jaw, or lips
- Post-dental surgery complications
If you feel your dental issue is an emergency, always trust your instincts. Contact your regular dentist to see if he or she is available. If not, it’s time to reach out to your emergency dental professional.
Proactively Preparing for Dental Emergencies
When you have a dental emergency, preparation is the key. Keep your emergency dentist’s phone number programmed into your cell phone and prominently placed on your refrigerator. This will help speed things up when you need fast treatment.
It’s always helpful to have an emergency contact available to take you to the dentist and keep you company. This can help reduce the stress of a traumatic experience. If you need emergency surgical treatment, your friend can also offer you a safe ride home.