(508) 644-5200
Nobody wants to find themselves in the middle of a dental emergency, but accidents can happen at any time. Whether you’ve broken a tooth over dinner or had one knocked out during a weekend tournament, you’re going to need help regardless of the day or time! In the heat of the moment, it can be hard to think clearly and take appropriate steps. Keep reading to learn 4 tips to find an emergency dentist when you need them.
Tip #1: Determine If It’s An Emergency
Not every inconvenience is considered an emergency, so it’s good to know what needs immediate attention and what might not. For example, some issues like a gradual toothache can probably wait for the dentist’s office to open. Dental emergencies that require quick action include:
- Cracked, broken, or knocked-out teeth.
- Tooth or jaw pain, especially if accompanied by fever.
- Bleeding, aching, or swelling gums that don’t subside.
- Dry socket.
- Loss of filling, implant, crown, or other restorative work.
If you’re experiencing any of these, call your dentist right away. Even if they’re closed, it’s possible they left emergency contact information or instructions on their voicemail. Otherwise, it’s time to start looking for the right help!
Tip #2: Search For Help Close By
If you’re not sure who’s open, you can find out by doing a quick internet search for emergency dentists in your area. Timing is of the essence, so you’ll want to find someone close by. If you can find a provider within 15 minutes of your location, that’s a great place to start!
Tip #3: Ask the Right Questions
Other questions to ask yourself that could help you find the right dentist for your situation include:
- Do they have same-day appointments? You need to be seen right away!
- What is the after-hours contact information? Their main line might close with the office but there could be special instructions for cases like yours.
- Do they take your insurance? Emergencies can be costly and most plans cover at least some of the expense.
Tip #4: Take Care of Yourself in the Meantime
Depending on the nature of your condition and how quickly you can see a dentist, you might need to take precautions while you wait. If your tooth was knocked out, for example, it’s imperative to keep it moist if you want it to be viable. Also, if you’re feeling discomfort feel free to treat it accordingly. Over-the-counter pain medications are often safe and effective for dental emergencies.
Now that you have a few quick tips to follow, you can manage your symptoms until you are able to see an emergency dentist. Once you arrive, they’re sure to assess your condition quickly through an examination and additional imagery as needed. Then, they’ll come up with one or more treatment options and work with you to decide how to proceed. Once your visit is complete, the immediate threat has passed, and you can finally relax knowing your teeth are thoroughly cared for!
About the Practice
Our dentists at Woodside Dental Care believe in a conservative, caring approach that saves you time and money while still focusing on oral health. We offer same-day appointments and emergency dental services. Our friendly team will make it as easy as possible to schedule your visit and minimize your wait time. If you’re in the middle of an emergency, feel free to contact us on the website or by calling (508) 644-5200.