WHEN DO I NEED DENTAL EMERGENCY DENTISTRY?
WHAT IS CONSIDERED A DENTAL EMERGENCY?
Dental emergencies involve any dental problems that require immediate treatment. This may include:
- A knocked-out tooth
- Loose or broken restoration
- Missing filling
- Dental infection, such as an abscessed tooth
- Severe tooth or gum pain
- Swollen or bleeding gums
- Swollen jaw or mouth
- Food or object lodged between teeth
A sure-tell sign is an unbearable pain.
Knowing where to go for emergency dentistry in NW Calgary will help you quickly take control of the situation.
WHO OFFERS EMERGENCY DENTISTRY?
Hospitals and urgent care facilities may be able to help you get out of pain. But they usually offer limited dental care and end up referring you to a dentist regardless.
Something to keep in mind:
If you need immediate care or treatment outside of regular business hours, this may be hard to find.
That’s why it helps to choose a general dentist who also offers emergency dental services.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN EMERGENCY DENTAL APPOINTMENT?
The goal is to help you get out of pain immediately and provide the next steps for your emergency dental treatment.
Begin by taking x-rays to help determine the proper treatment.
Next, recommended treatment options.
If time permits, we may complete the emergency treatment on the same day. If not, we’ll schedule you another appointment right away.
We’ll answer any of your questions or concerns and go over what to expect, including payment options.
HOW TO PREVENT A DENTAL EMERGENCY
Dental emergencies happen.
It’s something you can’t predict or plan for, but there are preventative steps you can take to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Decrease your risk by following these steps:
- Brush your teeth twice per day for at least two minutes each time
- Floss at least once per day
- Visit your dentist for routine checkups and cleanings
- Wear a sports mouthguard when participating in athletic events
- Use a nightguard if you grind your teeth (bruxism)
- Don’t use your teeth as tools
- Don’t chew on hard items like ice or pens
Preventative care may significantly lower your chances of tooth decay or infection.