Ouch! You’ve found yourself with a dental emergency that needs immediate attention, but you are not sure what to do. It’s time to start your search for an emergency dentist. You may need different types of care at different times if you’re looking for immediate relief.
For example, a primary dentistry practice may help repair one problem like a chipped tooth. However, there are other situations when an oral surgeon is suitable for the job. If you’ve got more severe concerns like tooth extraction, chances are an oral surgeon can help you out.
What Falls Under a Dental Emergency?
Sometimes, a dental emergency comes as a surprise. But, some things might give you a better idea. For example, you’re at a sporting event, and you’re hit in the mouth. You’re not sure what happened, but it hurts. Not only does it hurt, but it’s also bleeding, and you have no idea how to stop the bleeding. It’s time to run for help.
Other times, you know you’re in a dental emergency. It’s the kind that has to be handled right away, or you could permanently damage your mouth. For example, you’re at work, and something falls on your tooth. You’re immediately in pain. While you’re waiting it out, you begin to notice that the pain is worsening. It’s time to run to the emergency room.
How Are Dentists and Oral Surgeons Different?
Dentists and oral surgeons are both educated in the same dental school. However, they choose to specialize in one way or the other. A dentist practices general dentistry. They are responsible for restoring teeth, treating oral disease, and providing preventative care. An oral surgeon practices oral and maxillofacial surgery. They are trained to handle a variety of oral surgeries.
Oral surgeons are responsible for treating problems in the mouth and surrounding areas like the sinuses and jaw. They handle various health problems that impact the head, neck, and face. An oral surgeon can perform different procedures, from tooth extractions to reconstructive surgeries.
When Do You Need an Oral Surgery?
Oral surgeons are well-trained to handle most common dental emergencies. However, there are some situations that an oral surgeon is ideal for taking care of. For example, if you’re suffering from tooth decay, you can get a dentist to clean your teeth. There are cases where cavities need to be removed, and fillings may be necessary to repair the damage. This type of procedure is often the responsibility of a dentist.
Other times, you may be suffering from a dental abscess. A tooth abscess is caused by a cavity that becomes infected. The infection becomes so severe that it ends up in the jaw bone. When this happens, it is an emergency that requires immediate attention. The tooth has to be removed to save the patient in some cases.
Conclusion
If you’re suffering from a dental emergency that makes you feel like you’re in pain and that there is nowhere to turn, look no further. You can easily find an emergency dentist in your area. However, if your condition is severe, you might need the expertise of an oral surgeon. You can find the right oral surgeon to handle your dental emergency faster than you think.
Dental House MI provides dental treatments in Ann Arbor and Waterford, MI, including preventive dentistry, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, dental implants, advanced dental technology, and oral surgery.
We pride ourselves in being gentle and caring dentists that practice all aspects of dentistry with special care for patients with an aversion to dental treatment, creating an environment for patients that is both welcoming and personable. If you’re looking for an affordable dentist in Waterford, we can help. Get in touch with us today to schedule your appointment!