{"id":116,"date":"2020-03-26T21:30:41","date_gmt":"2020-03-26T21:30:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cherrichdds.com\/blog\/?p=116"},"modified":"2020-05-04T19:49:59","modified_gmt":"2020-05-04T19:49:59","slug":"covid-19-dental-emergencies","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cherrichdds.com\/blog\/2020\/03\/26\/covid-19-dental-emergencies\/","title":{"rendered":"Should I Go to the Hospital or Emergency Dentist?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"MolarMost people never expect dental emergencies to happen to them, but they are more common than you might realize. In fact, research shows every 1 in 6 Americans face a dental emergency<\/a> annually. While there isn\u2019t any good time for one to happen, it can be especially stressful if it\u2019s during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since many dental practices are closed, where should you go? You might think the ER is the right decision, however, is that really the right choice? Here\u2019s what you should do to stop your pain and save your smile.
\n<\/p>\n

ER or Emergency Dentist?<\/h2>\n

First, assess the situation to determine if you need to go to the hospital or the emergency dentist. In most cases, you\u2019ll want to avoid the ER. You’re more likely to be exposed to viruses, and they also aren\u2019t equipped to treat the underlying cause of a dental problem. Often, the most they can do is prescribe antibiotics or painkillers. Instead, unless you suspect a broken jaw or you have a medical emergency, like an injury, you should call your dentist.<\/p>\n

Despite many dental offices being closed for elective treatments, they are still available for problems that require urgent care. Your emergency dentist will follow the CDC\u2019s recommendations for sanitization to lower the risk of COVID-19 exposure. They also have less foot traffic to treat oral health issues to keep your well-being a top priority.<\/p>\n

Provide First Aid<\/h2>\n

While you wait to see your dentist, it\u2019s best to provide the appropriate first aid depending on the issue you\u2019re having:<\/p>\n