What Qualifies As Urgent Dental Care?

Dental emergencies like severe toothaches, broken or knocked out teeth, swelling or bleeding gums and dental abscesses need immediate attention to relieve pain, reduce risk of infection and avoid long-term damage. But knowing which situations qualify as an emergency can be confusing.

A dentist open on Saturday, when confronted with a dental emergency, assesses the situation and offers treatment options that are most appropriate for the patient’s unique needs. Often, this will include an evaluation of the extent of the issue, diagnostic tests, and, depending on the severity of the case, immediate pain relief procedures, such as tooth extraction or filling.

Urgent Dental Care: How to Prepare for Unexpected Dental Issues

Injuries to soft tissue in the mouth, which can result from sports or other accidents may cause swelling and bleeding. Rinsing the area with warm water, and using a cold compress and over-the-counter pain relievers can help control the situation until you can see an emergency dentist.

In many cases, a visit to an emergency dental clinic will be less expensive than ignoring the problem and waiting until it worsens. Regardless of your insurance coverage, it’s always wise to talk to your dentist about payment plans or financing options that could minimize costs during an Urgent Dental Care visit. That way, you can keep your smile and wallet healthy.