Is a broken tooth an emergency?
Fortunately, not all broken teeth require emergency dental treatment. For example, most patients with a toothache or sensitivity can wait for a next day appointment. Some patients find it helpful to use an over-the-counter medication for pain management while waiting to see the dentist. In some cases, it can be challenging to determine when emergency dental care is needed. A broken tooth is serious and many times is considered to be an emergency. Patients should follow up with their dentist immediately to discuss their broken tooth and determine if emergency treatment is necessary. The following article highlights frequently asked questions regarding broken teeth and emergency treatment.
Dental emergencies are typically defined as an issue which requires immediate attention from a medical professional. In many cases, the patient will require an appointment the same-day. In severe cases, the patient may need to visit an urgent care or the closest emergency room.
Often times, a broken tooth is considered an emergency requiring immediate treatment. A fractured tooth is one of the most commonly reported dental emergency. It is common for broken teeth to happen when the patient least expects it. The most common causes can include trauma, an accident, injury, or even routine chewing. While broken teeth are serious, a minor fracture does not require an emergency visit or immediate treatment. Patients with minor breaks can often wait for the next available appointment. While the break might be inconvenient, it is not an emergency.
A major tooth fracture, however, does require an emergency visit and immediate treatment. Serious teeth fractures involve a large portion of the tooth breaking off and often result in extreme pain. Patients should seek immediate treatment to preserve the tooth and prevent extraction.
Emergency Dental Treatment
While it is not recommended, patients may not have a dentist they regularly see for care. It is possible, however, for all patients to obtain emergency medical assistance. Dental offices often intentionally create space in the dentist’s schedule for patients who require emergency treatment. The patient can contact dentists in the area to find an appointment. Some dentists even offer appointments in the evenings and on weekends.
It is never convenient to have a broken tooth. Dental emergencies often occur on the weekends, evenings, or on a holiday. Regardless of when the emergency happens, the patient should reach out to their dentist right away. It is common for dental offices to have an emergency number or way to contact the dentist in the event of an emergency. Patients with a major fracture who are unable to reach their dentist can proceed to their local urgent care or emergency room.
The severity of the patient’s broken tooth will determine if it is an emergency. Minor fractures or chips can often wait and the patient can be seen in the coming days. Major tooth fractures, however, require treatment right away. When patients are unsure of the severity, they should follow up with their dentist. The dentist can usually perform a consultation over-the-phone to determine the severity and urgency in treatment. Broken teeth which are treated right away have the best outcome. Prompt treatment is critical in preserving the tooth and preventing the break from becoming worse.
If you experience a broken tooth, it should be taken seriously and you should follow up with your dentist immediately.