Avoiding tooth troubles and other threats to your good health: FAQs about emergency dental care
Wes Park Family Dentistry is here for you in good times and in bad. And, by keeping up with visits to our office, you help to minimize the “bad” in the dental world, those conditions that lead to intense pain and the need for urgent or emergency dental care.
What is a dental emergency?
Our team in Perry, Georgia, sees all sorts of emergencies. Unlike many dental treatments available at our office, this service category is associated with caring for a wide range of different problems and conditions. Dental emergencies take on many forms. Commonly, they include a broken or cracked tooth, a fractured jaw, a tooth knocked out of its socket, a severe and persistent toothache, and when objects are caught between teeth that cannot be removed.
I’m worried about my tooth. What should I do?
Contact us to schedule an appointment. If you suspect you have an emergency after hours, be sure to call us, and one of our on-call team members will be able to help you promptly. Every effort is made to see and treat you as soon as possible.
How do you treat my tooth?
Since emergencies reflect so many different conditions, treatment by our dentist, Dr. Bryce Westmoreland, really depends on the nature of the emergency and the source of any pain or other symptoms you may be experiencing. Often, conditions affecting the innermost tooth structure are associated with severe pain that can keep you up at night. Such deep decay or infections inside the teeth are often resolved with root canal treatment, followed by a crown. If the tooth is too damaged to be effectively treated with root canal therapy, we can perform an emergency extraction to remove it. From there, Dr. Westmoreland will discuss options to replace the tooth and prevent further damage to other teeth and parts of the mouth.
Deal with dental emergencies
Facing a dental emergency in Perry, Georgia? Avoid the pain and fear with prompt emergency care delivered by the friendly and dedicated Wes Park Family Dentistry team.
Do I need to visit the emergency room?
Infections demand prompt treatment. They can spread beyond the tooth and immediate area of the mouth — to other parts of the face, head, and body. A systemic infection is a medical emergency. Visit the nearest ER if you have problems swallowing or breathing and if you have a fever and facial swelling. One of the biggest health threats presented by oral problems is a dental abscess, a severe infection that can cause life-threatening complications and spread through the body.
How do I prevent emergencies?
Wes Park Family Dentistry loves this question, and this is what we love to do! We partner with our patients to minimize their risk factors for developing conditions like dental decay and abscesses. During regular exams and dental cleanings, we can also advise on additional special or medicated washes and products and services like dental sealants to further reduce your risk of conditions that can cause intense pain, tooth loss, and other serious complications. Even traumatic injuries can be avoided with services like our custom sports mouthguards.
FAQs
How can I relieve a toothache before I see a dentist?
Tooth pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek emergency dental care. Before you see a dentist, a few home remedies can help you manage the discomfort. Swish your mouth with warm, salty water. You can use over-the-counter pain relievers, but refrain from placing aspirin directly on the tooth. Most importantly, schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.
Will the appointment be uncomfortable?
Emergency visits are designed to relieve discomfort, not add to it. Your dentist will focus on getting you comfortable first, using gentle techniques and appropriate anesthesia when needed. Many patients experience immediate relief upon initiation of treatment. If you are anxious, let us know. Sedation dentistry can help you remain calm and relaxed.
Can you save my knocked-out tooth?
We can, but you should act quickly. If you have a dislodged tooth, keep it moist (in a saliva or milk container) and avoid touching the root when handling the tooth. Seeing an emergency dentist promptly gives you the best chance of saving the tooth. If we can’t re-implant your tooth, we’ll recommend replacing it with an implant or bridge.
Do I need to be in pain to visit my emergency dentist?
Pain is one of the common reasons to see an emergency dentist, but it’s hardly the only reason. Broken braces, a dead tooth, or a dislodged restoration may not cause pain, but they need urgent care. Always use your instinct. If something feels off, seek professional care. Early treatment can prevent bigger problems later.
Is a lost filling a dental emergency?
A loose or dislodged filling may not need a same-day appointment, but it shouldn’t be ignored. Without treatment, a compromised filling leaves the underlying tooth vulnerable to damage and decay. It’s best to have it addressed quickly to avoid further complications. Until you see your dentist, keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side.
Are X-rays really necessary?
Sometimes, physical exams are never enough to identify the root cause of your problem. X-rays allow your dentist to see what’s happening beneath the surface of your tooth and gums. They help diagnose the cause of pain or injury, ensuring the right treatment is provided the first time.
Is emergency dentistry costly in Perry, GA?
Cost varies depending on the treatment needed. Sometimes treatment can be a simple filling or cleaning, which costs less than crowns, extractions, or root canals. Our team will provide a detailed cost breakdown during the consultation. We’ll also explore various options to make your treatment affordable during this difficult time. Remember, the cost of not seeing a dentist will be much higher later. Take action now!
Does insurance cover emergency dentistry?
Coverage depends on the treatment needed. Our team will review the scope of your insurance and advise on the applicable benefits.
Will I need a follow-up?
In some cases, yes. Emergency care focuses on stabilizing the issue, and we may recommend a follow-up visit to complete treatment or monitor healing.
What are the consequences of avoiding emergency dental treatment?
Delaying care is never advisable. It often leads to:
- Costly treatments
- Unnecessary pain
- Tooth loss
- Widespread infections
Prompt attention often saves time, money, and discomfort. If you are in doubt, call us. We’ll advise whether you need urgent care or if you can schedule your appointment at a later date.
Who offers emergency dentistry near me in Perry, GA?
Dental emergencies never seem to happen at a convenient time. Whether it's a sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or an unexpected dental injury, knowing where to turn can make all the difference. If you need emergency dentistry in the Perry area, you can rely on Wes Park Family Dentistry. Call (478) 488-3561 and schedule your visit today!
Bryce Westmoreland, DMD
Dr. Bryce Westmoreland earned his BSA in Biological Science with Honors from the University of Georgia and completed his DMD at the Dental College of Georgia, where he also served as Chief Resident during his General Practice Residency. He specializes in implant placement surgeries and restorations and has furthered his expertise through the AAID MAXI course. He and his team are known for their friendly, gentle, and empathetic care, creating a welcoming atmosphere where patients receive the highest quality treatments.
He is a member of the American Dental Association, Georgia Dental Association, American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists.
