The searing pain of an abscessed tooth can feel like a thousand burning fires, making it difficult to think of anything else.
Emergency dental care can provide the relief you need when you’re in pain, and finding the right provider can be a lifesaver.
Learn more about where to turn when you’re in pain and how to prepare for treatment.
What Is Emergency Dental Care
Emergency dental care is the specialised treatment of urgent dental issues that require immediate attention. Examples of dental emergencies include wisdom teeth pain, a tooth abscess, jaw pain, and other dental conditions that cause intense and sudden discomfort.
Emergency dental treatments are aimed at alleviating the pain and providing prompt care to prevent further damage. Emergency appointments are available from most dental offices, allowing patients to receive immediate attention and treatment.
Emergency dental care is designed to help patients in pain receive the necessary treatments to help them recover quickly. It is important to remember that emergency dental care is an important part of overall dental care and should not be viewed as a last resort for those in need.
Who Can Access Emergency Care
Many people are eligible to receive emergency dental care, regardless of their insurance coverage or financial situation. Emergency dental care is typically provided by an emergency dentist or, in some cases, an emergency department within a hospital.
Common emergency dental services include treating a knocked-out tooth, relieving tooth pain or performing a tooth extraction. Patients are advised to avoid hot or cold foods and drinks, as these can exacerbate the pain. Severe tooth pain may also require professional dental care from an emergency dentist or a hospital emergency department.
Emergency care can help to diagnose the source of the pain and provide relief from it. In some cases, emergency dental care can also help to prevent further damage or infection.
What to Expect
When seeking emergency dental care, it is important to be aware of the potential treatments and the overall process. Emergency dentists provide services for patients suffering from a tooth infection, fractured teeth, or severe toothache. Patients may also require treatment for a dental injury or sports injury.
During the dental appointment, the emergency dentist will assess the patient’s medical history and perform a thorough examination of the teeth. Depending on the extent of the injury, the dentist may recommend a variety of treatments, including a cold tap water rinse and the use of concession cards.
The emergency dentist will provide instructions to the patient on how to manage any pain or discomfort they may experience following the appointment. Patients should be aware that emergency dental care is only a temporary solution and will require regular check-ups with a general dentist.
Preparing for Treatment
Once the emergency dentist has determined the necessary treatments, it is important for patients to take the appropriate steps to prepare for their appointment.
The type of pain and any underlying causes of the pain should be discussed with the dentist, as this can help the dentist determine the best course of action.
Private health insurance may be required for certain dental services, and depending on the urgency of the patient’s condition, it may be necessary to seek urgent attention from a private dentist.
Pain relief medication may be prescribed if the patient is in extreme pain, and for certain procedures, such as wisdom teeth extraction, the dentist may require the patient to prepare in advance by taking certain medications.
Finding a Provider
The first step in finding a provider for emergency dental care is to locate a local dentist who can help. Dental clinics and other oral health providers often offer services such as pain relief and treatment for broken teeth, lost fillings, and adult teeth outside of their normal working hours.
If you cannot locate a dentist in your area, applying a cold compress to the affected area may help to reduce the pain until you can find a provider. Additionally, if you have an adult tooth that has become dislodged, storing it in milk is the best way to preserve it until you can get to a dentist.
Aftercare
Once a provider has been located and the emergency dental issue has been addressed, it is important to understand how to care for the affected area properly.
To reduce dental trauma, rinse the mouth with warm water and use a soft toothbrush to remove food debris.
For soft tissue trauma, apply an ice pack to the affected area to reduce swelling and pain.
On public holidays, the nearest clinic may provide counter-pain medication.
In cases where root canal therapy is needed, schedule a dental check-up and follow the dentist’s aftercare instructions.
To ensure the best possible outcome, follow the given instructions and seek professional help if necessary.
Key Takeaways
Emergency dental care is often necessary to alleviate pain and discomfort. It can also be an emotionally challenging experience. With the guidance of an experienced provider, however, the process can be relatively straightforward and successful.
There are numerous options available to those in need of urgent care. Taking the time to research and understand potential treatments can help make the process as smooth and peaceful as possible.
If you are in need of emergency dental care in Engadine, NSW, consider visiting the experienced team at All About Dental. Their compassionate and knowledgeable staff will strive to provide the best care possible to alleviate your discomfort. Don’t wait to get the help you need; contact All About Dental today.
