When Should You Go to the ER for a Dental Emergency?

When a dental emergency strikes—like sudden tooth pain, a knocked-out tooth, or swelling—it’s natural to feel unsure about what to do next. Should you rush to the emergency room or call your dentist? The answer depends on the type and severity of your situation. Here’s how to know when to visit your emergency dentist and when a trip to the ER might be necessary.

When to Call Your Emergency Dentist

Most dental emergencies are best handled by your dentist rather than an emergency room. Dentists are specifically trained and equipped to deal with oral issues such as toothaches, broken teeth, or damaged fillings. An emergency dentist can provide immediate pain relief and treatment that targets the root cause of the problem—not just the symptoms.

Common situations your dentist can handle include:

• Severe toothaches or dental abscesses
• Chipped, cracked, or broken teeth
• Knocked-out (avulsed) teeth
• Damaged crowns or fillings
• Gum injuries or swelling around a single tooth

If you need an emergency tooth extraction, your dental office has the proper tools and expertise to perform the procedure safely and efficiently. Unlike an ER, a dental practice can take X-rays, provide numbing medication, and treat the infection or decay directly.

The best part? Many dental offices reserve same-day appointments for emergencies, so you can often be seen quickly without an expensive ER visit.

When It’s Best to Visit the ER

Although most dental problems are better handled by a dentist, there are times when an ER visit is the safest choice. If your dental emergency involves trauma or a potentially life-threatening situation, head to the emergency room first. Examples include:

• Facial swelling that makes it difficult to breathe or swallow
• Uncontrolled bleeding after an injury or extraction
• Broken or dislocated jaw
• Head or neck trauma along with dental damage

The ER staff can stabilize your condition and manage pain or infection until you’re able to see your dentist for follow-up care. Once you’re medically stable, your dentist can address the underlying dental issue and restore your oral health.

Why the Dentist Is Usually the Right Choice

Emergency rooms generally aren’t equipped for detailed dental care. Most hospitals lack dental instruments, X-ray equipment for oral imaging, or staff with dental training. As a result, ER doctors can typically only prescribe antibiotics or pain medication until you’re able to see a dentist.

Going directly to your emergency dentist often saves you both time and money while getting you faster, more effective treatment. Your dentist can not only relieve your pain but also prevent further complications, like infection or tooth loss.

Stay Prepared for a Dental Emergency

The best way to handle a dental emergency is to know where to go before one happens. Keep your dentist’s contact information handy, and make sure you know their after-hours or weekend emergency procedures. A little preparation can make all the difference when time is critical.

In short, if your life isn’t in danger, call your dentist first—they’re the experts in managing dental emergencies safely and efficiently.

About the Practice

Martinez Dentistry offers comprehensive dental care in Indianapolis, including emergency services and same-day appointments for urgent needs. Dr. Martinez and Dr. Grewal provide compassionate, expert care for issues like tooth pain, chipped or knocked-out teeth, and emergency tooth extractions. Our focus on comfort and efficiency ensures patients get the treatment they need—when they need it most—to preserve their smiles and peace of mind.

Call us at (765) 724-7729 or request an appointment online.