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Did you know that sporting injuries account for nearly 31% of orofacial injuries? Nearly 80% of sports-related oral injuries are to the maxillary incisors.

When accidents arise, you need to know how to choose an emergency dentist. If your current dentist offers emergency services, then you are in luck! However, not every dental practice includes emergency services, but it is a gamechanger if you have kids or want an all-inclusive clinic.

Clinics that offer complete services such as pediatric care, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry can save you on travel costs and the headache of researching different clinics and insurance coverage.

Luckily, we have you covered. In our complete guide, we will go over four ways you can choose an emergency dentist and how to get started today, so keep reading on for more information!

1. Emergency Care Experience

The most obvious requirement of finding an emergency dental office is looking at whether they promote and offer emergency services. These clinics will limit wait times for emergencies and ensure you receive prompt care. Emergency dental situations include:

• Cracked or broken tooth
• Tooth becomes knocked loose
• Abscess tooth (in some situations)

If you have sudden tooth sensitivity, you may be better off making the next soonest appointment. An emergency room physician should handle any jaw dislocations, fractures, serious bleeding, or abscesses resulting in difficulty breathing.

What happens during an emergency dental appointment? If it falls during working hours, you can visit the clinic for an immediate appointment. During weekends or off-hours, you will need to call the main office phone, and a skilled dentist will return your call.

When a tooth is knocked out, you may preserve the root in water or milk. When you visit an emergency dentist, they can attempt to reattach the tooth or perform other procedures that reduce your risk of infection and future dental problems.

Delaying emergency dental situations can increase your risk for tooth decay, gum infections, and increased pain.

2. References and Reviews

Finding the right emergency dentist also depends on references and reviews. In today’s modern and technologically-advanced culture, this process is relatively easy. Simply locate the dental office you had in mind and read online reviews.

It helps if you have family or friends who can provide excellent recommendations based on personal experience. Some references and keywords to look for are:

• Patient-driven
• Good communication skills
• Excellent experience and skillset
• Short wait times

If you can find reviews about their emergency care services, that is even better! It can provide insight into what to expect, how quickly you can be seen, and follow-up care. Call the clinic and ask about the dentists’ training, qualifications, and licensure.

3. Dental Treatment Costs and Insurance

Emergency dental situations will likely cost more than your average cleaning. In some instances, your insurance might cover it. It helps to know beforehand what types of financing and insurance coverage the dental clinic offers.

If you pay out-of-pocket because you unknowingly chose a dentist out of your network, you could be left with exorbitant costs. Some dental clinics offer monthly financing for dental services, which can help with expensive emergency bills. Most medical insurance won’t cover dental procedures.

You will need separate dental insurance, or you can ask about discounts for cash payments. However, you shouldn’t neglect dental care based solely on costs.

Many dental clinics will work with you on costs. When you avoid regular dental cleaning or emergency procedures, you run the risk for:

• Cavities
• Tooth erosion or decay
• Pain
• Increased tooth sensitivity
• Yellowing
• Impacted teeth
• Cancer

Preventive dental care includes regular brushing, daily flossing, and dentist visits. Non-dental emergencies that should still be taken care of include:

• Toothache
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Difficulty eating
• Dry mouth

Additionally, if you are pregnant, you may be at a higher risk for dental problems. Approximately 60 to 75% of pregnant women are at a higher risk for gingivitis and cavities.

4. What Services Do They Offer?

What service options for dentists’ clinics does your clinic offer? If you have a dentist that offers emergency services, dental cleanings, and routine procedures, you won’t have to visit multiple clinics. Look for clinics that accommodate children, sedative dentistry, and cosmetic services for an all-inclusive clinic that will streamline services.

Restorative care is also essential. It includes dental implants, dentures, bridges, veneers, and root canals. Restorative dentistry is critical to help patients eat and chew comfortably.

Veneers and other implants can provide a cosmetic appeal and help patients regain their smiles and confidence. If you have a tooth that becomes knocked out, you want a dentist’s office with several options for implants.

Lastly, virtual reality and artificial technology are transforming the dental industry. You want a clinic that uses up-to-date technology and has experience with the latest advancements to start improving dental health. For dental emergencies, your dentist will likely want X-Rays.

Current technology allows digital x-rays, which are modern and more comprehensive imaging sources. Additionally, digital x-rays produce nearly 80% less radiation than standard films.

How To Choose an Emergency Dentist Near You

Have you wondered about how to choose an emergency dentist near you? For your emergency dental services, you want a clinic with vast experience and qualifications. It also helps to have a clinic that offers various services and technologically-advanced treatments to improve your dental health.

The experts at Southeast Family Dental have you covered. From emergent dental services to routine cleanings, we offer everything you need from a family dental clinic. Are you ready to get started?

Give us a call and find out about our insurance coverage and upcoming appointments!