You suspect your teeth or gums might need treatment sooner than later. For issues like a sudden toothache, dental damage, or bleeding gums, an emergency dental appointment is almost certainly the way to go. But what should you expect during one of these visits? Is there anything you should know?
For the most part, an emergency dental appointment is similar to a regular checkup. There are just a few key differences! Keep reading so you’ll feel ready when it’s time to drive to the office.
Urgent Service for Urgent Problems
From a big picture perspective, you can count on an emergency appointment to be much more urgent than a normal one. During your phone call to request a timeslot, your dental team will likely ask you to describe your symptoms. Some oral health problems can wait a day or two, while others should be treated the same day if possible. Either way, you can expect your team to take the situation seriously and get you booked ASAP.
Pain Relief
After you actually arrive for your appointment, one of the first things your dentist will do is take action to relieve any pain you might be feeling. This might mean providing first aid, preparing an anesthetic, or administering dental sedation, depending on the severity of your discomfort. Then it’s time to diagnose the root cause of your symptoms.
A Thorough Oral Exam
Normally your dentist would conduct a more comprehensive exam, but during a dental emergency, their primary concern is investigating your problem area to find signs of painful debris, gum disease, cavities, and other such issues. They’ll look at your mouth visually and may also take X-rays so they can check on your jawbone or dental roots.
Discussing Your Treatment
Finally, your dentist will report their findings directly to you. You may have a couple of options for treatment, and they’ll be sure to keep you well-informed so you can feel confident in your decision. Of course, they’ll also be happy to offer their recommendation or answer any questions you may have. Some oral issues can be treated right away, while others require more preparation, meaning you may have to make a return visit.
It’s not exactly fun to experience a dental emergency, but it can be reassuring to know your dental team has your back and will provide quality treatment as soon as possible. You can expect them to properly prioritize your urgent situation and restore your smile in no time!
About the Practice
Dr. Carole Emanuel is a highly accomplished dentist. Since graduating from the Indiana University School of Dentistry, she’s completed over 500 hours of continuing education courses, focusing on specialties like dental implant placement, dental rehabilitation, and oral surgery. If you have a dental emergency that needs to be treated urgently, she’s well-equipped to diagnose the issue and care for your oral health! To request a same-day emergency appointment, contact Dr. Emanuel’s office at 303-986-0090.