Dental emergencies don’t exactly wait for a convenient time to strike. One minute you're enjoying dinner; the next, you're holding your jaw in pain, wondering where to go. Should you rush to the ER or call an emergency dentist in Easton, PA?
The answer depends on the situation. Here’s how to tell when a dentist is your best bet and when the emergency room might be the safer option.
When to See an Emergency Dentist in Easton, PA
If your dental emergency involves your teeth, gums, or jaw—but doesn’t immediately threaten your life—an emergency dentist should be your first call. ER doctors can help with pain and infection, but aren’t equipped to perform dental procedures. An emergency dentist can address the root of the problem.
Common emergencies a dentist can treat:
- Knocked-out tooth
- Cracked or broken tooth
- Severe toothache
- Lost filling or crown
- Dental abscess (painful infection near the root of a tooth)
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Object stuck between teeth
- Sudden jaw pain or locking
If you're experiencing any of the above, Affordable Dental Solutions offers fast, affordable relief with expert emergency dental care in Easton.
When to Go to the ER Instead
Some dental issues can quickly escalate into life-threatening situations, especially if they affect your ability to breathe, swallow, or control bleeding. If your emergency goes beyond the mouth or involves serious trauma, head to the ER immediately.
Go to the ER if you:
- Have swelling that’s affecting your breathing or swallowing
- Are experiencing uncontrolled bleeding
- Have a broken jaw or facial bone
- Sustained head or neck trauma in addition to a dental injury
- Have a deep cut inside your mouth or face that won’t stop bleeding
Remember: your health and safety come first. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and call 911 or visit the ER.
Why Not Just Go to the ER for All Dental Issues?
Most ERs aren’t staffed with dental professionals. At best, they’ll provide pain medication or antibiotics and refer you to a dentist afterward. That means extra time, cost, and discomfort.
An emergency dentist can diagnose and treat your dental problem on the spot—whether it’s a root canal, tooth extraction, or a quick fix like a temporary crown. Plus, you'll receive specialized care without the long wait times or hefty ER bills!
What to Do Before Your Emergency Dental Appointment
While you're waiting to see your emergency dentist, there are a few steps you can take to manage the situation and ease discomfort:
- Knocked-Out Tooth: Gently rinse the tooth without scrubbing, and try to place it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or saliva and bring it to your appointment ASAP.
- Severe Toothache: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, and use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen) can help, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum.
- Broken Tooth: Rinse with warm water and save any pieces of the tooth. Use gauze if there’s bleeding, and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Lost Filling or Crown: If possible, save the crown and bring it with you. You can use dental cement or even sugar-free gum as a temporary seal until your appointment.
Regardless of the issue, try to remain calm and avoid chewing on the affected area. The sooner you get to your emergency dentist, the better your chances of saving the tooth and preventing further complications.
Call Our Emergency Dentist in Easton, PA, for Quick Urgent Care
At Affordable Dental Solutions in Easton, we know that dental emergencies are stressful. That’s why we offer same-day appointments, compassionate care, and transparent pricing to get you out of pain fast.
Whether it’s a chipped tooth or a throbbing abscess, our emergency dental team is here when you need us most. Call our Easton office to speak with an emergency dentist in Easton, PA, today, and get back to feeling like yourself again.
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