Should I Go to the ER for Dental Emergencies?

When faced with dental emergencies, many people may instinctively consider heading to the local Marietta emergency room (ER). However, this choice often isn’t the best one for handling dental issues. Mansouri Family Dental Care & Associates offers several reasons why you should come to us for dental emergencies and NOT the ER.

ERs Lack Specialized Care

Emergency rooms are designed to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, but they are not equipped with the same expertise or tools as a dental practice. Dentists are specifically trained to address oral health issues and have the necessary equipment to diagnose and treat dental problems effectively. Conditions like toothaches, broken teeth and lost fillings need specialized attention that general practitioners cannot provide.

At the ER, while you may receive pain management for dental issues, the actual dental treatment may be limited. For example, if you have a severe toothache caused by an infection, ER staff may prescribe antibiotics or pain relievers, but they won’t perform dental procedures like root canals or extractions. A dentist can address the root cause of your problem and provide long-term solutions rather than just temporary relief.

Higher Costs

Visiting the ER can be much more expensive than visiting a dentist. Due to the nature of emergency medical care, patients often face high co-pays and charges that can add up quickly. Dental visits, especially for emergencies, tend to have lower costs and may also be covered by dental insurance, making it a more financially viable option.

Many people may go to the ER because they don’t have dental insurance, but your treatment is limited. The emergency practitioners may refer you to a dentist anyway, and now you have an ER bill and need to see a dentist. Mansouri Family Dental Care & Associates in Marietta, GA, accepts patients without dental insurance.

Longer Waits

Emergency rooms can be busy and often focus on life-threatening conditions first, meaning that you may have to wait for hours before seeing a physician, especially if your dental issue isn’t an immediate threat to your health. In contrast, Mansouri Family Dental Care & Associates reserves time for emergencies and can typically see you more promptly.

Our dentists are on call for dental emergencies. Call ahead and our team can give you instructions for handling your emergency situation before you arrive at our office – and we’ll be ready for you when you do get here.

Follow-Up Care

Dental emergencies often require follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and recovery. Dentists can provide ongoing care and monitoring, something that is unlikely to happen if you only receive a temporary solution at the ER. Establishing care with your dentist for follow-ups can be crucial for your oral health.

Marietta Emergency Dentist | East Cobb Urgent Dental Care

When you or a loved one sustains a dental injury in Marietta or East Cobb, your best choice for care is at Mansouri Family Dental Care & Associates. Our dentists are uniquely qualified to handle dental issues, providing the right care, better treatment options and a more cost-effective solution. Contact us right away at (770) 973-8222 and let our team know the circumstances of your dental emergency. We will provide immediate guidance and expert care after you arrive.