Dental emergencies can happen when you least expect them; and they’re often quite inconvenient! That said, when you do suffer a dental emergency, it’s important to contact your emergency dentist in Dallas for quick treatment to prevent any complications or serious oral health issues from developing. However, you might not know what to expect when you show up for your appointment. Keep reading to learn more about four things you can anticipate when you arrive.
1. Same-Day Appointment (If Necessary)
You should contact your dentist as soon as possible after experiencing a dental emergency; time is of the essence! However, your dentist will determine if you need to be seen immediately. Some types of emergencies, like displaced teeth, need to be addressed as soon as possible. However, minor injuries like chipped teeth can often wait a day or two. Your dentist will advise you on what to do in the meantime to minimize your discomfort.
2. Emergency Dental Examination
The first thing your dentist will do upon your arrival is perform an emergency dental exam, which is a little different than your average oral exam that is performed during regular checkups. They will only inspect the problem-area of your mouth instead of spending time checking your whole mouth. The objective of this exam is to identify the issue quickly and accurately, so that your dentist can recommend swift treatment. Sometimes X-rays are taken to detect possible inflammation or infection.
3. Possibility of Anesthetics or Sedation
Sometimes your dentist might have to use anesthesia or sedation to treat you—but this is nothing you need to worry about! Your comfort is your dentist’s top priority, and sedation can also be used for patients who experience extreme anxiety during dental emergencies. It’s also worth mentioning that some types of treatment require sedation regardless of the level of pain you’re experiencing.
4. Pain Relief & Restored Smile
Certain dental emergencies can compromise the look, feel, and even the functionality of your smile while also causing quite a bit of pain. But as soon as you’re seated in your dentist’s chair, they’ll take over and do everything they can to provide you with pain relief and address the root of the issue. Some common situations that emergency dentists can address include:
- Toothaches and oral pain relief
- Chipped, broken, or loose teeth
- Emergency tooth extraction
- Lost crowns or fillings
- Hypersensitivity
- Injuries to the tongue, lips, and gums
The world can sometimes come to a screeching halt when you experience a dental emergency! But contacting your emergency dentist quickly and knowing what to expect upon showing up for your appointment can go a long way towards dispelling stress and anxiety while also ensuring that your treatment goes smoothly.
About the Author
Dr. Mariya Barnett proudly serves patients and families in the DFW area! Dr. Barnett received her dental doctorate from the University of Michigan and obtained her Advanced Education in General Dentistry through a one-year residency program at the Texas A&M Baylor College of Dentistry. Her practice is pleased to offer a wide range of available services, including emergency dentistry! If you or a loved one is suffering from a severe toothache, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment online or by phone: (469) 874-0469.
