When you find yourself dealing with a sudden and painful oral health problem, one of the first things you should do is call your dentist. They will try to arrange their schedule so they can attend to you as soon as possible. But what should you expect to happen when you arrive for your emergency dental visit? This blog post provides a general overview of what is likely to occur.
Examination and Diagnosis
When you arrive at your dentist’s office for an emergency visit, the first step typically involves a thorough examination. Your dentist will ask detailed questions about your symptoms, such as the type, location, and intensity of your pain.
Your dentist will also perform a visual inspection of your mouth, teeth, and gums. They may use special instruments to check for swelling, infection, broken teeth, or other visible damage. In many cases, your dentist will also require diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, to get a clear view of what is happening beneath the surface.
Once your dentist has gathered adequate information, they can decide how to move forward with helping you.
Emergency Pain Relief
After diagnosing the problem, your dentist will prioritize pain relief. They may administer local anesthesia to numb the affected area. This step allows for a pain-free experience during any immediate procedures. In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medication may be provided to control your discomfort once you return home.
For certain emergencies, your dentist might use temporary solutions specifically aimed at stopping the pain until a more permanent fix is possible. For example, if you arrive with a lost filling or crown, your dentist may place a temporary restoration to protect the exposed area and reduce sensitivity. If you have an infection, your dentist could prescribe antibiotics to reduce inflammation and control pain until further treatment can be completed.
Your dentist will also offer advice on how to manage pain at home if necessary. This guidance may include instructions on applying cold compresses, avoiding certain foods, and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Treatment
Pain control is important, but even more vital is that the cause of the problem be properly addressed. Your dentist will make a treatment recommendation based on your unique circumstances.
Some dental emergencies require relatively quick and simple repairs, such as re-cementing a crown or replacing a filling. More complex situations, like a severely damaged tooth or a deep infection, may necessitate advanced procedures such as root canal therapy or tooth extraction. In some cases, you will have to return for additional appointments so your treatment can be completed.
An emergency dental visit should be a positive experience that results in reduced pain and improved prospects for your oral health. Do not hesitate to ask for this type of appointment if your situation requires it.
Meet the Practice
At Abington Family Dental Care, we pride ourselves on providing top-quality services in a comfortable setting. We have great compassion for individuals who are in pain, and we are often able to provide same-day emergency care. To learn more about us and how we may be able to help you, contact our office at 781-780-2658.