Is an emergency dental visit anything like a normal dental appointment? What will happen when you step into the office? When will you be able to go back home? If emergency dental visits seem like a mystery to you, that’s okay. Not everyone knows how these urgent appointments work, and the unknown can be nerve-wracking, especially when it involves your smile!
Fortunately, you’ve come to the right post. To learn what will likely happen during your trip to the emergency dentist, keep reading.
Common Dental Emergencies
First of all, why might you need an emergency dental visit? When’s the right time to request a same-day appointment?
Your dental team will let you know how soon you need to make an appointment after you describe your symptoms to them over the phone. Any strange oral symptoms that cause you concern can be a good reason to contact your dentist, but here are some specific examples of common dental emergencies:
- Knocked-out tooth
- Damaged restoration
- Bleeding gums
- Dental damage
- Loose teeth
- Toothache
- Visible cavities
- The appearance of an abscess
1. Diagnosing the Issue
When you actually arrive at your emergency appointment, your dental team will take you back to see your dentist as soon as possible. To get a better understanding of what could be going on in your mouth, your dentist will perform an oral exam, which might include X-rays. Then they’ll report their findings and lay out their treatment recommendations.
2. Treating Your Problem
Sometimes a dental emergency can be taken care of on a same-day basis. Filling a cavity, for example, is usually a quick and simple process. Some other situations, however, require multiple treatments or prior prep-work. In either case, your dentist will let you know what your estimated treatment time will be, and can help alleviate pain if you need to wait.
3. Follow Up
Even after completing a multi-step treatment plan, your dentist will likely want to schedule a follow up to make sure the problem was solved and your recovery is going smoothly. In the unlikely event you experience a complication, they’ll want to identify it and take care of the problem as soon as possible.
Don’t hold back any questions or concerns you may have during these appointments. They’re for your benefit, too, and any additional notes you have could be important!
Conclusion
All things considered, an emergency dental appointment isn’t too different from your regular visits – it’s simply more urgent. Rest assured, your dentist will be completely focused on restoring your oral health and overall comfort. Sit back, relax if you can, and let them take care of you and your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Dennis C. Ayer earned his dental degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry in 1984, and has since completed advanced training programs in multiple dental specialties. His experience enables him to provide truly comprehensive care for his patients; no matter your emergency, Dr. Ayer has the skills to provide quality treatment! To request a same-day emergency appointment or ask about your oral symptoms, contact Dr. Ayer’s office at 913-246-3000.