With the outbreak of COVID-19, urgent care units and emergency rooms are busier than ever. So, if you have a dental emergency, it’s best to avoid these places and visit your dentist right away. Although most dentists are closed, they can still treat emergencies! Keep reading to learn more about why it’s important to see your dentist for a dental emergency instead of the ER.
But First, What’s Considered a Dental Emergency?
A dental emergency is pain, injury, or damage that occurs in the mouth that stops you from doing your normal day to day activities. Sometimes, you may have irritation in a tooth that can be solved with a quick rinse and floss. However, in other cases, you may experience an excruciating toothache that seems like it came out of nowhere. If this occurs, you won’t be able to focus on your regular tasks, and you’ll need immediate attention. Toothaches, broken teeth, lost teeth, lost fillings, and other painful dental problems should all be treated by your dentist immediately. Be sure to call your dental office whether you know you’re having an emergency or not to learn your next steps.
Why It’s More Important Than Ever to Choose the Dentist Over the ER
While you should already favor your dentist in a dental emergency situation, it’s more important than ever to choose your dentist in Gorham for emergency care. The hospitals and ER’s are extremely busy with COVID-19 cases, and their medical professionals should dedicate their time to these patients rather than treating your dental issue. Plus, it’s in your best interest to avoid medical centers and hospitals anyway because you can stay away from those who are potentially infected! Your dentist routinely cleans and sterilizes their practice to ensure a clean and safe environment. Plus, they have a much lower patient count, which decreases your risk of coming in contact with the virus.
When is an ER Visit Necessary?
It’s in your best interest to visit your dentist if you can because they are a specialist in oral healthcare. However, there are some cases that require an ER visit. If you experience a jaw injury, uncontrollable bleeding, a problem that affects your breathing, deep facial wounds, or any other potentially life-threatening issues, you should go to the ER right away.
While times are uncertain, you can always rely on your dentist in your time of need. Contact your dentist as soon as possible if you notice any pain or discomfort in your smile!
About the Practice
At Morgan-Hill Dental Care, we have a team of 3 dentists who combine their knowledge and training to deliver the best experiences for their patients. They’re ready to help get you out of pain in their thoroughly sanitized office even though they are closed for elective dentistry. If you have any questions about emergency dentistry or COVID-19, they can be reached through their website and by phone at (207) 839-2655.