Dental emergencies have a horrible tendency to strike when you least expect it at the least convenient moment possible. Thankfully, today’s dentists are trained and equipped to handle a wide range of dental crises such as dislodged teeth, broken dentures, severe toothaches, and destructive dental injuries. Here’s a quick overview of how your dentist can evaluate your emergency at their office so they can determine an appropriate treatment.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
Some dental health issues are more urgent than others. A few problems that need immediate attention include:
- Throbbing toothaches
- Chips or cracks severe enough to expose the tooth’s inner structures
- A loose permanent tooth
- A dislodged tooth
- Small lacerations in the soft tissues
Issues like minor chips and cracks, dental sensitivity, a broken denture, and a lost filling or crown can typically wait a few days before receiving treatment.
What Is an Emergency Dental Appointment Like?
The first step to having an emergency dental appointment is to call your dentist’s office to explain the situation and let them know you are coming. The staff will provide you with instructions for how to handle the problem until you get to the office. When you arrive, your dentist will carefully evaluate your mouth to assess the problem, and you may also receive x-rays to check for internal damage.
Once your dentist has a clear idea of the problem, they will recommend an appropriate treatment to address the issue. It may be necessary to schedule a procedure such as a root canal for a later date, and you will probably receive prescriptions for pain relievers or antibiotics to help you manage the issue until then in such a case. However, a dislodged tooth must be tended to as soon as possible, preferably within the same hour that it is knocked out, in order to prevent it from being lost.
Many dental insurance policies cover at least one emergency dental plan a year, and restorative procedures are frequently covered by about 50%. Getting emergency dental care when you need it can allow you to prevent the issue from getting worse so you can keep your smile in beautiful condition for life.
About the Practice
Hearts of Texas Smiles offers the finest oral healthcare services in Waco. Led by Drs. Theresa Lassetter, Guillermo Rivacoba, and Ethan Enneking, the staff ensures that each patient receives outstanding courtesy and remarkable customer service. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, dial (254) 848-0240. For non-urgent inquiries, contact the office online.