Emergency Exam FAQs
What happens during an emergency exam?
During an emergency dental exam, the dentist assesses and addresses urgent dental issues. The patient describes their symptoms and medical history, and the dentist conducts a visual examination of the affected area. X-rays may be taken if necessary. The dentist identifies the problem, such as a toothache, infection, or injury, and provides immediate relief or treatment options. This may include prescribing medications, performing temporary repairs, extracting a tooth, or scheduling a follow-up procedure. The goal is to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and restore oral health in emergency situations.
When should I go to the dentist for an emergency?
In most dental emergencies, seeking immediate care from a dentist is the best course of action. Dentists have the necessary expertise and equipment to address dental issues effectively. Common signs are a severe toothache lasting more than 24 hours, a broken or chipped tooth with sharp edges or significant pain, knocked-out tooth. The quicker you seek dental care, the higher the chances of saving the tooth.
How much does an emergency exam cost?
Typically, insurance will cover your emergency exam. If you do not have insurance, you can pay a one time fee of $99, or sign up for Dentologie Plus, our membership benefits plan.
When should I go to the hospital?
If the injury is severe, such as a facial or jaw injury from a fall, assault, car accident, etc, you should go directly to a nearby hospital. Severe facial or jaw trauma resulting from a car accident, severe fall, or physical assault. This also includes uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth or facial lacerations that require sutures, fractured jaw or a dislocated jaw joint, severe swelling or infection that compromises breathing or swallowing. In such cases, it is important to call emergency services or head to the nearest hospital without delay.
