In the heat of a dental emergency, you may ask yourself what happens if you go to the hospital for tooth pain. Are they experienced in pulling teeth or should you try to find a dentist for your emergency? The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think. Keep reading to learn more about our best recommendations for a dental emergency.
Dental emergencies can strike at any time, causing severe pain and panic. Whether it's a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or a broken tooth, it's essential to act fast. However, rushing to the ER might not be your best option. While they can provide temporary relief, ERs typically don't have the specialized equipment or expertise of a Bethesda emergency orthodontist to fix your problem.
Emergency rooms are equipped to handle life-threatening situations, not specific dental issues. They can administer painkillers and antibiotics to manage infection, but they are unlikely to perform an extraction. The ER's primary role is to ensure your condition isn't life-threatening, but they'll usually refer you to a dentist or orthodontist for follow-up care.
When you're dealing with a dental emergency, you need specialized care. A Bethesda emergency orthodontist like Dr. Maddy Goodman & Dr. Heather Sholander at Harmony Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics can provide immediate, expert treatment. They have the specialized training to handle dental emergencies, including tooth extractions if necessary.
Choosing to visit an emergency orthodontist in Bethesda instead of the ER for a dental emergency offers several advantages. Emergency orthodontists provide immediate, specialized care for dental issues, which ER staff may not be specifically trained to handle. This specialized attention ensures you receive comprehensive treatment options that address both the immediate problem and the underlying cause, rather than just temporary relief.
Additionally, visiting an orthodontist directly can be both time and cost-efficient. Emergency rooms are often more expensive and require follow-up visits to a dental specialist, whereas an orthodontist can resolve the issue in one visit. This not only saves money and time but also reduces the burden on ER services, which are typically reserved for more critical health emergencies.
Like any emergency, it's best to be prepared for a dental crisis. Have the number of a reliable Bethesda emergency orthodontist saved in your phone. Regular dental check-ups can help prevent some emergencies. Also, knowing basic first aid for dental emergencies can buy you time until you can see a professional.
In a dental emergency, every second counts. Don't waste time and risk your oral health by heading to the ER. Instead, contact Harmony Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, your trusted Bethesda emergency orthodontist. Dr. Maddy Goodman & Dr. Heather Sholander are here to provide immediate, expert care. Call us at (301) 664-4220 to request an appointment today.