Sedation Clinics
Countless states have issued mandatory shut downs for businesses and are telling people to stay indoors due to COVID-19. Unfortunately, emergency situations that require urgent attention still occur. In these unsure times, you have more options for emergency care than your local ER. Read on to learn when you can visit your emergency dentist and how you can reduce your risk of oral emergencies while you self-isolate. ß
When Should You Visit Your Dentist?
Even though dental practices are no longer administering cosmetic, preventive, or restorative treatments, your emergency dentist is still helping patients who need urgent care find fast relief. Plus, many emergency rooms are being flooded with patients due to the COVID-19 breakout, which is why it’s a good idea to avoid your local ER if it’s possible. Typically, any type of oral damage or problem can be addressed at your emergency dentist’s office. Some of these include:
- Uncomfortable dental sensitivity that makes it difficult to eat or drink.
- A severe toothache that won’t seem to go away.
- A permanent tooth is loose or shifting.
- Your gums are swollen.
- You have broken or chipped a tooth and are in pain.
- Your tooth got knocked out.
- A dental crown or filling is damaged.
- You have a severe cavity that is causing you discomfort.
If you’re in pain and are experiencing out-of-the-ordinary symptoms, it’s likely a result of a dental emergency. When you call your dentist, they can provide you with over-the-phone first-aid guidance and schedule an appointment for you as soon as possible.
When Should You Visit Your ER?
Unfortunately, certain situations do require medical attention and a visit to your local emergency room instead of your dentist. These include any issues that seem life-threatening, are impacting your ability to easily swallow and breathe, facial lacerations, or a broken or fractured jawbone.
If you’re exhibiting any signs of illness that may be indicative of COVID-19 at the same time as your emergency, such as cold-like symptoms, coughing, or a fever, be sure to contact your local emergency room ahead of time. This way, they can protect and prepare their staff and patients and provide you with high-quality and safe medical care.
How Can You Prevent Dental Emergencies During Self-Isolation?
Just because you’re self-isolating doesn’t mean that you won’t experience any type of dental emergency. Even though you can’t completely avoid these situations, there are certain preventive measures you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing them. These include:
- Sticking to your morning and nightly dental hygiene routine.
- Maintaining a nutritious diet that’s low in sugars and carbohydrates.
- Try to break bad oral habits such as smoking, nail-biting, and teeth grinding.
If you aren’t sure if you need urgent dental care, don’t hesitate to contact your emergency dentist. They can talk with you about your symptoms and determine whether your problem can be remedied with a simple dental hygiene alteration or needs professional care.
About the Practice
At Dental Wellness of Lexington, we offer the services of three highly trained and experienced dentists. Out top priority for our emergency patients is that they feel comfortable and pain-free during their treatment. We also use the latest techniques and technology to quickly identify the issue and treat it to preserve your smile. For questions or to schedule an emergency appointment, visit our website or call 859-223-4644.