Emergency Exams –
How to Handle a Dental Emergency
Dental emergency exams are often more common in children as they can be more prone to accidents and injury. However, an emergency can happen to anyone when we least expect it, so it’s important to be prepared and know how to handle a situation in advance.
When Do You Need an Emergency Exam?
You may need dental emergency exams due to injury, trauma, or infection, or for any of the following reasons:
Not all dentists offer emergency exams, but at Magnolia Dental Care, Dr. Sarah Latterell treats any dental emergency, including broken teeth, tooth pain, and jaw pain.
What to Expect During an Emergency Exam
We recommend keeping the phone number for our dental practice on hand in an emergency – 952-927-7744. It’s also important to know when to call our practice for an exam and when to go to the ER. If you have severe bleeding, face/head trauma, or facial swelling extending near your eyes or throat, call 911 or go to your nearest ER right away.
1. Assessment
Once at the practice, Dr. Sarah Latterell will take X-rays and examine the severity of your dental emergency and determine the treatment required.
2. Anesthetic or Sedation
Depending on the type of dental emergency, you may require an anesthetic or sedation. The anesthetic will numb the area to avoid pain during treatment; while the addition of nitrous oxide sedation (laughing gas) may assist in pain relief or relaxation for those who are especially anxious.
3. Treatment
Emergency dental exams can involve anything from treating an infection or injury to replacing a crown, implants, veneers, temporary bridges, tooth extractions, orthodontic or denture adjustment, and more.
4. Recovery
After an emergency procedure, Dr. Sarah Latterell may prescribe or suggest over-the-counter painkillers to ease the pain. She may also prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present. If any follow-up treatment is required, Dr. Sarah will provide details for what to expect.