Visiting an emergency dentist for the first time may bring about feelings of anxiety and apprehension. It is, however, a necessary step when you are experiencing severe dental discomfort or trauma. Understanding what to expect during this visit can help alleviate those feelings and better prepare you.
During an emergency visit, the primary goal of the dentist is to diagnose the issue, alleviate pain, and prevent the problem from worsening. Below we outline general steps to expect during an emergency dental visit.
1. Patient Registration:
The first step, just like at any regular dentist’s office, involves registering as a new patient unless you are already registered. This will require filling out a form detailing your personal information and medical history. It’s essential to mention any pre-existing medical conditions and medications currently taken. This information aids the dentist in providing safe, personalized care.
2. Triage:
In an emergency dental situation, triage aims to prioritize patients based on the severity of their dental problem. Though dentists strive to see all patients promptly, those in severe pain or with significant dental trauma are seen first.
3. Dental Examination:
Your emergency dentist will then proceed with an examination to determine the problem, whether a broken tooth, severe toothache, or an abscess. This may involve a physical exam, during which the dentist checks your teeth and gums for signs of decay, swelling, and inflammation. Additionally, x-rays might be taken to visualize issues that may not be visible to the naked eye, such as infection in the root or jawbone, or hidden cavities.
4. Diagnosis:
Following the examination, the dentist will explain their findings to you, cover the viable treatment options, and propose the next steps. Remember to ask any questions you might have at this stage. An informed patient makes better decisions about their care.
5. Treatment:
Once the diagnosis is delivered and treatment is agreed upon, the dentist will initiate the treatment. This could range from prescribing antibiotics for an infection, performing root canal therapy, extracting a problematic tooth, or setting up a tooth fracture temporarily. The nature of your dental emergency largely dictates the treatment plan.
6. Follow-Up and Aftercare Instructions:
After treatment, the dentist will provide directions for recovery and ongoing care. This could include specific brushing techniques, restrictions on food or activity, medication schedules, and additional hygiene tips. There might also be follow-up appointments depending on your treatment.
Lastly, it’s good to note that emergency dental services can be more expensive than regular care due to their immediate and unplanned nature. Therefore, one should familiarize oneself with the likely costs before the visit.
Visiting an emergency dentist emergency dentist for the first time may seem daunting. However, by understanding the process outlined above, you can go into your visit better prepared. Remember, the objective of emergency dental care is to ease pain and protect your dental health — your dentist is there to help.