If you have ever been in a situation where you needed an emergency dentist Quincy, you understand how painful and frightening it can be. In many cases, you are unsure of what is really considered an emergency dental situation. You may not know whether you should call your dentist or go to the ER. Following these guidelines can help you determine how to handle an emergency for you or a family member.

Non-Urgent Dental Problems

The following examples are what happens when you have a non-urgent dental condition:

• Cracked tooth without severe pain
• Retainer or night guard is broken or damaged
• Lost bridge, crown or filling
• Dull toothache
• Food wedged between teeth

When you or a family member experiences a non-urgent dental condition, you may still need to contact your dentist. However, you might not need to be seen right away.

What’s Considered Urgent?

Of course, any pain or discomfort in the mouth is urgent. You want relief and you want it as soon as possible. Therefore, it is important to recognize which dental emergencies require urgent treatment. Knowing the difference between non-urgent and urgent conditions will ensure you are not enduring unnecessary pain at night or during a long weekend when most dental offices are closed.

Examples of urgent dental conditions are:

• Permanent tooth that is loose or has been knocked out
• Bleeding that does not stop
• Painful swelling
• Severe tooth pain
• Injured jaw

Dental emergencies of this nature should be treated right away. Calling your dentist is the first thing you should do. Simply going to the ER does not guarantee proper treatment.

Typically, most dentists have an emergency number if you or a family member experiences any of the above problems after regular business hours. If for some reason you are unable to reach your dentist, go to the emergency room.

At-Home Treatments for an Emergency

Depending on your condition, there might be some things you can do at home to ease the pain. You might even be able to remedy the situation, especially when the condition is not urgent. A cold compress, pain medication or a saltwater rinse might help until you can be seen by a professional.

No matter what the condition, it is important to stay as calm as possible. Being anxious can trigger your body to react in a way that makes the situation worse.

Seeking the right type of assistance you need when you or a family member are having dental problems can ease unbearable pain and have you smiling again.