During this uncertain time, you’re probably doing everything you can to limit your contact with the outside world, preventing your exposure to the Coronavirus. This not only keeps you safe, but it also helps minimize its spread from person to person. However, what should you do if you have a dental emergency? You’ll have to leave your home, but where should you go—the ER or your dentist? Keep reading to learn the smile saving answer!
But First, How Do You Know if You’re Having an Emergency?
The first step is recognizing that you have a true emergency. Often, tooth pain can be caused by some irritating food debris stuck in your smile. That’s why if pain occurs suddenly without injury, try to floss and rinse around the area to remove lingering food particles. If your pain persists, you have a tooth infection, which is an emergency that you should be treated right away. Additionally, broken, lost, and cracked teeth are other common dental emergencies that can occur. The sooner you seek treatment, the easier your recovery will be!
Why You Should Visit Your Dentist
When a dental emergency occurs, it’s always best to visit your dentist if you can, but it’s especially important now more than ever. Emergency rooms are filled with potential cases of COVID-19, plus they’re experiencing increased foot traffic during this time. However, your dentist’s office has had far fewer patients in their location because they are closed for routine services, making their practice perfect for treatment. And, this allows the ER to have more time to treat COVID-19 patients.
Dentists already keep their offices incredibly sanitized and clean, but they have doubled their efforts by using Cavacide—a virus killing disinfectant, following recommendations from the CDC. Additionally, your dentist has all of the emergency services you may need at the same location, whereas the ER may only have a limited number of options for treatment.
When the ER is Necessary
While your dentist is highly trained to get you out of pain in most any situation, there are some instances where you should visit the nearest urgent care facility. If you experience a jaw injury, trouble breathing, uncontrollable bleeding, broken facial bones, deep facial wounds, or any other life-threatening issues, you should go to the ER immediately. In these events, time is especially of the essence, and you may need general medical attention.
Even through these strange times, your dentist is ready to help when you need it most. If you’re having a dental emergency, call your dentist for safe and effective treatment!
About the Practice
Dr. Shane Vaughn and Dr. Amiee Vaughn are a husband and wife team of dentists who work together to keep their patients healthy. They understand that life can be stressful during Coronavirus, which is why they want you to know that they can help if you’re experiencing a dental emergency. For any questions, they can be reached through their website or by phone at (561) 747-7172.