A sudden sharp pain in your gums signals the need for an emergency dentist. If you’ve had an accident or if a hidden cavity rears its ugly head, it’s time to act. Emergency dental situations can be distressing, but knowing what to expect when you see your emergency dentist can help ease your anxiety in a critical moment.
If you want to learn how dentists care for dental emergencies, continue reading.
1. Fast Scheduling
Most dentists set aside time in their schedules every day to receive emergency patients. If you call during business hours, expect to be penciled in quickly. Dentists and their staff understand the urgency of your situation and aim to accommodate your needs as quickly as possible. Just be sure to give as much detail as possible so that they can be ready to help when you arrive.
2. An Emergency Dental Exam
Once your emergency dentist has an idea of what you’re coming in for, they can prepare for your visit. However, they won’t begin your treatment until after an emergency exam. After all, the symptoms you describe could have more than one meaning to a professional. Because of this, they’ll need to see exactly what’s happening in your mouth before committing to action.
The exam often includes X-rays, a brief discussion of your medical history, and a list of medications you’re currently taking. Afterward, your dentist will look at the site of your trouble, concentrating their efforts on the source of your pain.
3. Sedation Dentistry
In addition to local anesthetics, your dentist may offer sedation to help you with any discomfort you may be feeling. This treatment varies from light sedation like nitrous oxide to moderate types of oral conscious sedation. Both will help you relax, decrease pain, and supply an overall more pleasant dental experience.
4. Follow-Up Visits
After your initial emergency appointment, it’s not uncommon for your emergency dentist to request a follow-up. This may be necessary to see if the treatment was enough to address the issue. If not, other procedures may be needed to fully fix your teeth or resolve underlying problems.
Surprise dental problems are always stressful, but it’s good to know that your emergency dentist has you covered. If you find yourself in a situation where you’re experiencing pain in your teeth and gums, don’t hesitate to reach out. Delaying your treatment could end in even more serious consequences.
About the Author
Dr. Puneet Sandhu, DDS is the owner and lead dentist at Complete Dental Care Paradise Valley in Phoenix, AZ. A graduate of the University of Arizona where he completed his degree in physiology with a minor in chemistry in just three years, he went on to earn his dental degree from UCLA. Dr. Sandhu is a faculty member of Spear Education, the world’s largest dental education organization, and holds a Fellowship with the International Dental Implant Association as well as memberships with the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. Known for his warm, easy-going approach and his belief that patients are true partners in their own care, his clinical focus is full mouth reconstruction and comprehensive restorative dentistry. Outside the office, Dr. Sandhu enjoys Cardinals and Giants football and spending time with his family.
Call (480) 526-4317 to schedule an appointment at Complete Dental Care, or visit the website to discover other services.
