Experiencing a dental emergency can be distressing and painful for your child, impacting their school performance, sleep, and eating habits. Knowing whether to take your child to their pediatric dentist or the emergency room is crucial for timely treatment. Read on to understand when a dental emergency requires immediate attention from a pediatric dentist and when it’s better to visit the emergency room.
Why You Should Visit the Dentist Instead of the ER
Emergency room personnel are highly skilled in urgent medical care but typically do not have dental professionals available. While they can offer temporary relief for issues like bleeding or pain, it is generally better to visit your child’s dentist for specialized and comprehensive dental care.
Dental offices usually have shorter wait times than emergency rooms, which can be crucial in a dental emergency. Additionally, dental treatment at an emergency room is often more costly compared to a dental office visit.
Pediatric dentists generally provide timely appointments and can often accommodate dental emergencies on the same day, ensuring swift and cost-effective care. Pediatric dentists, with their specialized training, are well-equipped to diagnose and treat dental emergencies, ensuring the best outcome for your child’s oral health.
When to Visit the Emergency Room Instead
Although it’s usually best to visit your child’s dentist for a dental emergency, there are specific instances where a trip to the emergency room is necessary. These include if your child has:
- Life-threatening symptoms, including difficulty breathing or swallowing
- A fever that’s extremely high due to a tooth infection
- Uncontrollable dental bleeding
- A serious facial injury
- A broken jaw
How Can I Know Who to Visit?
Determining whether to visit the emergency room or your pediatric dentist for a dental emergency can be challenging. The emergency room is suited for life-threatening situations, but dental issues often require specialized care.
Your child’s dentist is best equipped to provide long-term solutions for problems like bite issues, damaged restorations, and tooth replacements. They also offer comprehensive follow-up care to effectively manage your child’s oral health.
While preventive measures are essential to reduce the risk of dental emergencies for your child, accidents can still occur unexpectedly. With the information provided above, you will be equipped to handle your child’s dental emergencies effectively and seek the right care to restore their smile.
About the Practice
At Main Street Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics of Danville, the dedicated team provides exceptional oral healthcare for young patients. Emphasizing comfort and a compassionate approach, they aim to create a stress-free dental experience while delivering the highest standard of care and respect. In the event of a dental emergency, they offer a wide range of services to promptly address the issue and restore your child’s smile to optimal health. To schedule an appointment or learn more about their emergency services, call (925) 430-7710 or visit their website.