If you have never faced a dental emergency, it can feel like a scary situation. You might even feel overwhelmed, especially if you are unsure of what to expect when you see your dentist. What exactly happens during an emergency dental visit? There is nothing to worry about! As you will see in this blog post, your dental team’s priority is to address your pain and get you on the path toward improved oral health.
Examination
When you arrive for an emergency dental visit, your care team will start by conducting an examination of your mouth. You will be asked about your symptoms, recent dental history, and the events leading up to your emergency. Your dentist will visually inspect the affected area and may use diagnostic tools such as X-rays to identify the underlying cause of your discomfort.
By gathering all relevant information, your dental team will be able to determine the best course of action to address your needs. They will be able to advise you on your next steps and share a cost estimate for your recommended treatment plan.
Anesthetic and Pain Relief
After the examination, your dental team will focus on relieving your pain. If you are experiencing significant discomfort, local anesthetic may be administered to numb the area and provide immediate relief. You might also receive medication or instructions for pain management, depending on the nature and severity of your dental problem. Your comfort will be a top priority throughout the visit, and your dentist will take steps to help you feel calm and relaxed.
Immediate Treatment
Once your pain has been addressed, your dentist will take steps to treat the root cause of the emergency. This may involve procedures like repairing a broken tooth, draining an abscess, or replacing a lost filling. The treatment will depend on the specific issue you are facing, and your dentist will explain each step so you understand what is happening. If your condition requires more complex care, temporary measures may be taken to stabilize your oral health until more extensive procedures can be completed.
Planning for Follow-Up Care
Not all dental emergencies can be completely taken care of in a single visit. Therefore, your care team may schedule you for additional appointments as needed. It is important that you follow through so your dental problem does not have a chance to worsen and start causing pain again!
Dental emergencies can be unsettling, but your dentist is ready to help you get out of pain and restore your oral health. If you ever find yourself in need of urgent dental care, you can trust that the process will be straightforward and supportive.
Meet the Practice
Carolina Complete Dental is home to three highly skilled dentists, all of whom combine their knowledge with compassion to provide top-quality care. Our practice is often able to accept emergency cases on a same-day basis, so do not hesitate to reach out if you need prompt care! Call our Goose Creek office at 843-553-5235.