When to Go to the ER vs. Emergency Dentist?

When faced with a dental emergency, knowing whether to seek care at the emergency room (ER) or from an emergency dentist can be difficult. Here are some factors to consider when making this decision:

Emergency Room

Life-Threatening Emergencies

If you're experiencing a life-threatening dental emergency, such as severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, or a head or neck injury affecting your breathing or consciousness, go to the ER immediately. The ER is equipped to handle these types of emergencies and can provide immediate medical attention.

Outside Regular Business Hours

If you have a dental emergency outside of regular business hours and cannot reach an emergency dentist, the ER may be your only option. However, remember that emergency room visits can be expensive, and you may wait a long time to receive care if your condition is not life-threatening.

Emergency Dentist

Prompt Treatment

An emergency dentist is the best option if you have a non-life-threatening dental emergency, such as a broken tooth or a severe toothache. They can provide prompt treatment to alleviate your pain and prevent further damage to your teeth.

During Regular Business Hours

An emergency dentist can provide immediate care if you have a dental emergency during regular business hours. This is often a faster and less expensive option than going to the ER.

Specialized Treatment

If you require specialized dental treatment for your emergency, such as a root canal or extraction, an emergency dentist can provide this treatment. They have the expertise and equipment to safely and effectively perform these procedures.

The Final Word

Go to the ER immediately if you’re experiencing a life-threatening dental emergency. For non-life-threatening emergencies, an emergency dentist is the best option for prompt and appropriate care. However, if you're unsure about the severity of your condition, it's always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention at the ER. Contact Severance Dental and get in touch with their emergency dentists. They are highly skilled and experienced in taking immediate action in case of a dental emergency.