When dental pain strikes suddenly, knowing where to go can make all the difference. Should you visit an emergency dentist or rush to the nearest ER? Making the right choice can save you time, money, and discomfort. At Appleby Dental in Burlington, we know that emergencies require quick decisions, and we’re here to help you understand your options so you can get the right care, fast.
When Should You See an Emergency Dentist?
Emergency dentists specialize in handling urgent dental problems that can’t wait for a regular appointment. Here are the most common issues that an emergency dentist can address:
- Severe toothaches: Pain caused by infections, decay, or trauma.
- Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth: Restorative work may be needed to prevent further damage.
- Lost fillings or crowns: Replacing them quickly protects the tooth from further harm.
- Infections and abscesses: Dentists can drain abscesses and prescribe antibiotics to manage infection.
- Knocked-out tooth: Emergency dentists know how to save your tooth if you act quickly.
Key benefit: Emergency dentists have the right equipment and expertise for immediate dental issues, ensuring that problems are resolved quickly without the need for general medical care.
When is the ER a Better Option?
While emergency dentists cover most urgent dental situations, some cases may require hospital-based care. Visit the ER if:
- You experience severe facial trauma that may involve broken bones.
- You are bleeding heavily and it won’t stop after 10-15 minutes.
- You have a severe infection or swelling affecting your ability to breathe or swallow.
- You experience a jaw fracture or dislocation.
In such cases, the ER has access to life-saving care, imaging technology, and specialists. If necessary, ER staff can stabilize you before referring you to a dentist for follow-up care.
Benefits of Choosing an Emergency Dentist Over the ER
- Faster treatment: Emergency dental clinics often have shorter wait times than ERs.
- Specialized care: ERs handle a wide range of emergencies, but emergency dentists focus on oral health.
- Lower cost: ER visits can be more expensive, especially without dental-specific care.
- Direct insurance billing: Many emergency dentists, including Appleby Dental, offer direct billing for insurance plans, easing the financial burden.
How to Prepare for a Dental Emergency
It’s always wise to have a plan for unexpected dental emergencies. Here are a few tips to help:
- Keep your dentist’s contact details on hand. If you’re in Burlington, Appleby Dental is here for you:
- Phone: (905) 331-7654
- Location: 4300 Upper Middle Road, Unit #1, Burlington, ON L7M 4P6
- Create a dental emergency kit with gauze, pain relief medication, and a small container for storing knocked-out teeth.
- Know when to act fast. If you lose a tooth, place it back in its socket if possible, or store it in milk, then head to your emergency dentist immediately.
Appleby Dental: Your Go-To Emergency Dentist in Burlington
At Appleby Dental, we provide emergency dental care that helps you manage unexpected pain or injury. We understand that dental emergencies can happen anytime, which is why our team is ready to assist you quickly and professionally.
If you’re facing an emergency, give us a call at (905) 331-7654 or contact us at 4300 Upper Middle Road, Unit #1, Burlington. We accept direct insurance billing to reduce hassle and ensure you get the care you need when it matters most.
The Right Option for Your Emergency
In most cases, an emergency dentist will be the better choice for urgent dental issues. However, for severe injuries or life-threatening conditions, the ER is the safest bet. At Appleby Dental, we are committed to providing quick and effective care for your dental emergencies. Knowing where to go can save precious time and prevent complications.