Sudden Solutions: 3 Tips to Find an Emergency Dentist

Despite our best efforts to keep our smiles safe, no one can anticipate when a dental emergency might occur. Whether you’ve cracked a tooth or have a throbbing ache that won’t go away, sometimes you need help fast. If you’re not sure who to call, it’s easy to feel flustered and overwhelmed. Fortunately, your dentist has put together the following list of 3 helpful tips to find the right assistance when you need it!

Tip #1: Call for Help

If you’re in an urgent situation, the first thing you should do is contact your dentist. If you don’t have one established or if they’re far away, you may need to look for a source closer to home. Fortunately, dentaly.org is a website that provides free and independent information about dental care. You can call their helpline any time of day at 866-383-0748. They’ll be able to help you find a provider based on your current condition and needs.

For those who already have a dentist, reach out to their office. If they don’t offer same-day appointments, they’ll be sure to schedule you for a visit at the earliest opportunity. Many even offer emergency care instructions over the phone for you to follow until you arrive.

Tip #2: Check the Hours of Operation

It often seems to be the case that the worst inevitably happens during evenings or weekends outside of typical business hours. If your emergency happens when your dentist’s office is closed, look for an office that has weekend or evening hours available. That way you won’t have to wait for relief. Even if your dentist can’t fully repair the issue on your first visit, they’ll do what they can to mend and protect your tooth until a more permanent solution can be implemented.

Tip #3: Manage Discomfort

You don’t need to wait until you’re seen by the dentist to alleviate your symptoms. If your mouth is swollen or in pain, it’s usually safe to take over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or Tylenol to mitigate the impact. Often, applying an ice pack to the injured side of your mouth can also briefly numb the area and reduce inflammation. If you’ve broken a tooth or are bleeding, you can gently bite down on a piece of gauze or clean paper towel to slow the flow until you can get in to see your dentist.

Soon, you’ll arrive for your visit and will have an oral examination and imaging to determine the full extent of the damage. From there, your dentist can recommend appropriate treatments and get to work repairing your smile!

About the Practice

At Marble Dental McKinney, patients of all ages benefit from two experts who provide a full range of services, including emergency dentistry, under one roof. They take pride in helping patients enhance the quality of their lives by improving their oral health. Same-day appointments are available so if you’re in an urgent situation, you don’t have to wait for relief. They also offer different options for sedation so that you can feel calm and comfortable throughout your visit. If something has happened and you need help quickly, feel free to request an appointment on the website or by calling (214) 592-0441.