How Do I Know If I Need Emergency Dentistry or A Regular Appointment?

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When you feel sudden tooth pain, break a tooth, or notice swelling, the first question that often comes to mind is, “Do I need an emergency dentist or can it wait?”

Understanding the difference between urgent care and a regular dental visit can save you from serious pain and complications.

If you’re looking for help with Emergency Dentistry in LaSalle, this guide will help you figure out what type of dental care you need.

What Counts as Emergency Dentistry?

Emergency dentistry is a treatment needed when a dental issue is so severe that it cannot wait for a regular appointment. These situations can involve tooth pain, bleeding, or any kind of risk of infection.

Some examples of dental emergencies include:

  • A knocked-out tooth
  • Severe toothache that doesn’t go away
  • Swelling in the gums or face
  • A cracked or broken tooth that exposes the nerve
  • Uncontrolled bleeding in the mouth

If you face any of the above-listed concerns, you should receive emergency dentistry near you immediately.

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

dental emergency is a situation that shows your oral health is at risk if you don’t get immediate treatment. Situations like these, when ignored, can turn into a worse infection, major pain, or even tooth loss.

Clear signs of a dental emergency:

  • Sudden, sharp pain when eating or drinking
  • A tooth that feels loose or has fallen out
  • Pus or abscess around a tooth or gum
  • Injury to the mouth from an accident

If any of these apply to you, it’s best to contact your dentist as soon as possible.

When Do You Need Urgent Dental Care Instead of Waiting?

At times, the situations cannot be life-threatening, but they would need urgent dental care within the first 24-48 hours. These situations may include anything from the below list:

  • A chipped tooth (without pain)
  • Lost dental filling or crown
  • Mild toothache that is getting worse
  • Food stuck between teeth causing discomfort

In these cases, you should call your dentist right away and ask if they recommend a same-day visit.

Can a Same-Day Dentist Help With Minor Issues?

Yes, a same-day dentist can manage both urgent and minor dental problems. Although this minor issue may not look like an emergency yet, a same-day appointment can save your teeth from a major issue in the future.

Same-day visits are useful for:

  • Fixing broken fillings
  • Adjusting loose crowns
  • Treating early gum infections
  • Relieving tooth sensitivity

This quick care ensures your problem doesn’t turn into something worse.

How Can a Dentist in LaSalle Guide You?

If you live nearby, a dentist in LaSalle can examine your mouth and let you know whether you need urgent care or if your issue can wait for a routine appointment. They can also provide preventative tips to avoid emergencies in the future.

Should You Call a Dentist Near You First?

Yes, calling a dentist near you should be your first step. Most dental clinics have emergency slots or can direct you to an urgent care dentist if needed.

A dentist will also make an effort to help you understand the symptoms on the phone and tell you whether waiting is safe or if you need immediate treatment.

Wrapping Up!

Not every dental problem is considered an emergency, but knowing the difference is important to maintain healthy oral health. Severe pain, swelling, or bleeding means you need quick help, but in case of minor issues like a chipped tooth, you can wait; it is still advised to have quick attention.

At MC Dental, we are here to help you with both emergency and routine care so you never feel doubtful about what to do next.

FAQs

How do I know if my toothache is an emergency?

If the pain is severe, and does not minimize with medication, or comes with swelling, it’s likely an emergency.

What should I do if I knock out a tooth?

Soak the tooth in milk or saline and get to a dentist right away. The sooner you can get there, the better chance you’ll have of saving it.

Can a regular dentist handle emergencies?

Yes, many general dentists offer emergency slots. If not, they will recommend that you visit a dental clinic near you.