Should I Call an Emergency Dentist or an Oral Surgeon?

If you have found yourself with a dental emergency you may wonder where to start. Doing research ahead of time to find an emergency dentist is important. This not only helps you to be prepared in an emergency, it also helps make the situation less stressful. Typically, your emergency dentist should be the one to call when you have a dental emergency.

Your dentist can handle an emergency and perform an oral exam to determine what is needed. If the situation requires an oral surgeon, your dentist will refer you to a great surgeon they recommend. Common dental emergencies include injury to a tooth or the mouth, prolonged pain or swelling, or an infection.

What is the Difference Between a Dentist and an Oral Surgeon?

Many patients are unsure what the difference is between their dentist and an oral surgeon. Oral surgeons receive different training and education compared to your dentist. An oral surgeon can offer different services that your dentist may not be able to perform.

General dentists can perform minor surgeries, but their training is focused on services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, and root canals. Visiting your dentist first is a great start if you have any emergency. Your dentist can evaluate the emergency and determine if they can treat your issue, or refer you to an oral surgeon.

An oral surgeon is required if your emergency involves a tooth extraction, concern with your gum tissue, or an issue with your jaw bone. Oral surgeons are trained in various surgeries such as impacted teeth, jaw concerns, bone loss, and wisdom teeth.

There are dentists available who can do both, and finding that perfect dentist can make your life easier. In many cases there is an oral surgeon in the same office and your dentist can refer you to them for a same day appointment. An oral surgeon can help patients that have suffered any traumatic injury.

Looking To Find Out More?

If you are interested in finding out more about what emergency services we provide, we encourage you to contact our office. Our staff is trained to handle dental emergencies, and are available to answer any questions you may have. Calling our office is the first step when you have a dental emergency. We can take a look, and evaluate next steps to help get you on the road to recovery.

To get in touch with us or for more information contact our office, and our staff will be happy to assist you!