As a rule, you should always visit your emergency dentist in Kingsport, TN, when you have tooth pain, but some circumstances make seeing the dentist difficult. For example, if you are on vacation or have facial or body trauma in addition to tooth pain. In these cases, we encourage going to the ER.
Let’s explore more instances where you should go to the ER instead of the dentist and how to lower your risks for dental emergencies.
4 Times You Should Visit the ER Instead of Your Kingsport Dentist
#1 Accident or Impact Trauma
If you’ve been in a car accident or have trauma other than a painful tooth, you must visit your local ER as soon as possible. Our top priority is always your safety!
Once you’ve been assessed and deemed safe by the ER team, you can contact our dental office for emergency dental treatment.
#2 Fever and Unusual Symptoms
If your jaw pain includes unusual symptoms outside of discomfort and localized swelling, including fever or nausea, we recommend visiting the ER first. In some cases, severe sinus infections and other conditions can cause tooth pain by virtue of swelling.
You can contact us immediately after ER assessment, and we’ll schedule an emergency dental appointment.
#3 During Dental Holidays or Afterhours
If our dental office is closed for a specific holiday, or you develop severe tooth pain late in the evening, you can visit the ER for pain relief and follow up with our dental team the following day.
#4 You Are on Vacation
If you’re on vacation and can’t find an emergency dentist to treat you, it may be beneficial to visit the local ER, at least for pain management.
At Hagan Dentistry, we treat patients who are new to us all the time for dental emergencies!
Your Emergency Dental Visit with Us
The team at Hagan Dentistry sets aside time in the schedule for dental emergencies. We don’t want our patients to suffer from toothaches for prolonged periods. We also see new patients with dental emergencies.
At your appointment, we work fast to assess the cause of your toothache. Then we provide treatment. Often, we complete treatment on the same day, but sometimes, we relieve your pain, stabilize your issue, and have you come in for a follow-up visit. For example, root canal therapy takes two dental appointments to complete.
However, we will never send you home without relieving your discomfort. Additionally, your dentist will always discuss treatment options with you and explain why you have a toothache before starting treatment.
Lowering Your Risks for Dental Emergencies
One of the most common causes of tooth pain is a root canal infection. The pulp and tissues at the center of your tooth become infected and inflamed, which can be excruciating!
To lower your risks for root canal infections, we recommend visiting your Kingsport dentist every six months for checkups and teeth cleanings. You should also be brushing and flossing regularly. And if you have a tooth injury, which can later turn into a root infection, be sure to talk to a member of our team.
Tooth pain can also result from deep decay, tooth trauma, or injury.
If you notice mild tooth sensitivity or a small divot in your tooth, it’s essential to see your dentist. These symptoms may mean a small cavity. It is better to treat the cavity in the emerging stage. However, not all cavities have symptoms, which is why regular dental care is crucial.
To lower your risks for tooth trauma or injury, be sure to wear the proper mouthguard or face gear when playing sports. And talk to your dentist if you suspect nighttime bruxism, also called teeth grinding. Bruxism can wear down your teeth, leading to decay and infections.
Finally, regular dental care, including teeth cleanings, lowers your risk for gum disease. Gum disease can mean tooth pain, tooth loss, and systemic health complications, including but not limited to heart and lung issues.
The team at Hagan Dentistry understands how frustrating and frightening toothaches and dental emergencies can be. But when you trust us with your emergency dental care, you can count on gentle treatment from compassionate dental professionals.
Emergency Dentistry from Your Dentist Near Me
If you have a toothache or other potential dental emergency, we encourage you to contact our dental team for an assessment and treatment. And always give us a call if you have questions about our dental services.
We are happy to accept CareCredit to help you finance your emergency dental treatment.