The COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost every aspect of day to day living. It has even caused the American Dental Association to recommend that all dentists temporarily suspend their normal operations. What, then, should you do if you find yourself in sudden oral pain? Instead of heading straight to the ER, call your local emergency dentist in Carrollton instead. They may not be offering all services at this time, but they are likely ready to help their patients in need! Let’s talk about why visiting your dentist instead of the ER is better for your oral and overall health.
Reasons to Avoid the ER if Possible
Hospital staff members do not have the training and equipment necessary to address most dental emergencies. They might be able to stitch up oral wounds or treat a broken jaw, but damaged teeth, toothaches, and other severe dental problems are beyond their ability to treat. Only a dentist can render proper care for such issues.
Also, keep in mind that emergency rooms, particularly in metropolitan areas with a high number of COVID-19 cases, may be completely overwhelmed. As the nurses and doctors screen patients and perform triage, they could make your toothache or other dental problem a low priority. Hence, you might end up sitting in the ER’s waiting room for hours on end without receiving the care you need. It is also possible that they will send you home without providing any care at all.
Another reason to avoid ER visits during this pandemic season is to avoid exposure to the coronavirus and thereby play your role in slowing its spread within the community.
Why Visiting Your Dentist Is Better
As soon as your dental emergency begins, get in touch with your dentist. If you cannot reach them on the phone, you may be able to send them an email. In your message, describe the nature and severity of your symptoms. In most cases, you’ll get a prompt response. Your dentist might tell you to come in that same day, or perhaps the next day, to get treatment. They can also give you tips on how to minimize your pain while you are waiting for your appointment.
Also, there is much less traffic in dental offices than in emergency rooms, which means that your risk of contracting an illness there is extremely low. Dentists maintain strict standards of sterilization.
We are all grateful for the sacrifices and hard work of the professionals who work in hospitals — but they are not whom you should turn to first when you face a dental emergency. Get in touch with your dentist instead!
About the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy is a general and emergency dentist in Carrollton. She has been practicing for nearly 15 years. Her experience and advanced education equip her to handle a wide range of urgent dental problems. She is ready to help her patients even in this time of COVID-19! If you are experiencing a dental emergency, or you have other pressing concerns about your oral health, contact our team via email at aegisdentalinfo@gmail.com or via phone at 972-942-6700.