Toothaches can hit you out of nowhere and with tremendous power, ruining your daily routine and making eating, sleeping, or even focusing difficult. In this case, it does pay to know where to get assistance. Emergency dental in West Edmonton is an excellent service in case there are emergent dental issues, but when do you go to the dental clinic, and when do you go to the emergency room?
Knowledge of the difference between medical emergencies and dental emergencies will assist in preventing you from getting improper care in an inappropriate place.
How to Know It’s A Dental Emergency
Dental pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, throbbing pain that radiates to the jaw, neck, or ears. Not every case needs to be taken to the hospital. A skilled dentist in West Edmonton can repair most dental emergencies quickly and efficiently.
Some of the most common dental emergencies that should be treated by a dentist include the following:
- Intense dental pain or oral infections
- Chipped, cracked, or avulsed teeth
- Missing crowns or tooth fillings
- Gum, tongue, or cheek injuries
- Face or jaw swelling caused by a dental origin
Under such a scenario, a dentist will be capable of scanning the affected area, conducting X-rays, and conducting early treatment like a root canal, extraction, or infection control.
When Should You Go to the ER?
Although most dental emergencies can be managed in a dental clinic, there are instances when medical attention is necessary. If your condition is accompanied by any of the following, an ER visit may be warranted:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Excessive bleeding in the mouth
- High fever and facial swelling due to infection
- Trauma from an accident causing head or neck injuries
Can the ER do anything for severe tooth pain? Yes and no. While hospital staff can manage pain and treat serious infections temporarily, they typically do not perform dental procedures. You may receive antibiotics or pain relief, but will still need to follow up with a dentist for definitive care.
What Can I Do If Tooth Pain Is Unbearable?
Severe tooth pain can feel intolerable. While waiting for professional help, you can try the following to minimize discomfort:
- Rinse with warm salt water to cleanse and reduce inflammation
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (as directed)
- Apply a cold compress to the cheek near the painful area
- Avoid chewing on the affected side
- Keep your head elevated to reduce pressure
These steps can offer temporary relief, but a proper diagnosis from an emergency dentist is essential for long-term resolution.
Benefits of Seeing An Emergency Dentist
Choosing emergency dental care over the ER for tooth-related issues offers several advantages:
- Access to dental imaging and specialized tools
- Immediate treatment tailored to oral health needs
- Avoiding long ER wait times
- More cost-effective solutions
- Prevention of further damage or infection spread
In most cases, dentists can address both the pain and the root cause, helping restore your comfort and oral function quickly.
Relieve Tooth Pain With the Right Emergency Care – Westside Family Dental!
Tooth pain can quickly disrupt your quality of life, but knowing where to turn can make all the difference. While hospital ERs are essential for life-threatening issues, most dental emergencies are best handled by professionals who specialize in oral health. Choosing an experienced emergency dentist ensures that you receive timely, targeted treatment that not only alleviates pain but also addresses the root cause effectively.
Don’t wait for the discomfort to worsen or risk further complications. Book your emergency dental appointment with Westside Family Dental today and let our team provide the prompt, compassionate care your smile deserves. Your oral health is our priority and we’re here when you need us most.