Is It Worth Waiting? When to Call the Emergency Dentist vs. the ER

Dental pain doesn’t always follow a convenient schedule. Whether it's a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or severe swelling, knowing whether to contact an emergency dentist or head straight to the ER can make all the difference in your outcome. 

Picking the right course of action can save you money, reduce wait times, and ensure you get the expert care you deserve. In this guide, we’ll help you understand when to call a dentist like Dr. Gardner Wade at Gardner Wade DDS, LLC in Baton Rouge and when a trip to the emergency room might be your best bet.

When to Call an Emergency Dentist

Dental emergencies are more common than you may think, and the good news is that most can be effectively treated by an emergency dentist. Timing matters. Calling your dentist promptly can prevent minor issues from turning into bigger, more painful, and expensive, problems. Here are several situations where contacting an emergency dentist is typically the right decision:

• Severe toothache: Especially if the pain worsens or radiates to other areas.
• Chipped or cracked tooth: If there’s no major bleeding or facial trauma.
• Lost filling or crown: These can expose sensitive tooth areas and lead to complications.
• Swollen gums or abscess: Signs of infection that need prompt dental treatment.
• Tooth knocked out: If you can see a dentist within an hour, the tooth might be saved.

Dr. Gardner Wade and his team offer fast relief and compassionate care at Gardner Wade DDS, LLC, focusing on preserving your oral health and minimizing your discomfort.

When to Go to the Emergency Room

While dental professionals are the go-to for most oral issues, there are times when the emergency room is the better choice, particularly if your condition poses a risk to more than just your teeth. Visit the ER if you experience:

• Severe trauma to the face or jaw: Especially if accompanied by bleeding, broken bones, or difficulty breathing.
• Uncontrolled bleeding: From the mouth, after an accident or while recovering from a dental procedure.
• Swelling that affects swallowing or breathing: This could signal a life-threatening infection.
• High fever with facial swelling: Might indicate an extensive infection that requires IV antibiotics and other specialized treatment.

Basically, you should go to the ER if you think your life is in danger. In these cases, hospital staff can stabilize your condition, and you can later follow up with your dentist for restorative or long-term treatment.

How to Prepare for a Dental Emergency

Emergencies can cause panic, but knowing how to act quickly can make a significant difference. Here are ways to be ready and help preserve your oral health even before you reach a dentist or the ER:

• Keep your dentist’s contact info handy: Save Gardner Wade DDS, LLC’s number (225) 766-6100 in your phone for quick access.
• Create a dental emergency kit: Include gauze, a small container with lid, over-the-counter pain relievers, and temporary dental cement.
• Learn basic first aid: Knowing how to handle a knocked-out tooth or stop bleeding can help preserve your oral structures.
• Know your insurance coverage: Keep both your medical and dental insurance information handy to make it easier when you visit the ER or an emergency dentist like Dr. Gardner Wade.

Making the Right Call Could Save Your Smile

Remember, not every toothache requires a hospital visit. Most dental emergencies are best handled by a skilled emergency dentist who can treat the issue quickly and comfortably. If you're in Baton Rouge and need immediate dental care, Gardner Wade DDS, LLC is here for you. 

Dr. Gardner Wade offers experienced, trusted emergency dental services that can restore your oral health and provide peace of mind, all without the waiting room of an ER. We offer same-day care for most patients, and we’re even open from 8 AM to 5 PM on Saturdays.

Need Emergency Dental Care in Baton Rouge?

If you're facing a dental emergency, don't wait. Contact Gardner Wade DDS, LLC today at (225) 766-6100 to schedule an urgent appointment with Dr. Gardner Wade. Whether it's severe pain, a broken tooth, or an unexpected dental trauma, our team is ready to provide the urgent dental care you need to get back to smiling, fast.