As you and your child go about your day, your little one may find themself in need of urgent oral care. Whether it’s a toothache, damage, or a knocked-out tooth, going to the right place can give them the quick relief they deserve. However, is visiting the dentist best, or do ERs handle dental emergencies? Here’s what you need to know so your loved one can feel their best as soon as possible.
Should I Take My Child to Their Dentist or ER for Dental Emergencies?
To make a long story short, it’s best to take your child to their pediatric dentist for dental emergencies. That’s because they are oral healthcare professionals with years of experience and advanced training to treat problems in the mouth. They also have instruments that were specifically designed for teeth and gums. They will be much more effective in restoring your loved one’s happy smile.
Not only that, but many ERs also don’t have a dentist on staff. While there are doctors, they aren’t equipped to do or perform dental care. In fact, they often tell their patients to call their dentist!
Is Visiting an ER Ever Helpful for a Dental Emergency?
With that being said, there are certain scenarios where taking your child to an ER for their dental injury can be helpful. Although they won’t get the treatment they need, they can get relief from the pain they might feel. Here’s when it’s best to go to your local emergency room:
- Your child has uncontrolled bleeding that lasts for 10 minutes or longer, despite applying pressure.
- Your loved one has a tooth abscess, along with trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling, and a high fever.
- An injury led to a fractured jawbone.
How Will My Child’s Dentist Handle Dental Emergencies?
When your child is at their pediatric dentist, they will get to work treating the issue right away. They will first make sure they get rid of any discomfort, even offering sedation if your loved one is especially anxious. After an examination and X-rays, they will be able to diagnose the problem and fix it.
In the end, your child’s dental provider is often your best bet for these scenarios. While an ER can be helpful for temporary solutions, they deserve one that’s more permanent. That way, they can go back to letting their growing smile shine.
About the Practice
At Main Street Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Danville, the kids in the local community benefit from a compassionate team of pediatric dentists. We are here to help tiny teeth with their dental emergencies by getting them in as soon as possible, oftentimes the same day.
By using state-of-the-art technology, we can then give your loved one the quick, effective care they deserve. If your child has found themself in these urgent situations, the fastest way to schedule an appointment is by calling our office at (925) 575-8878.