Have you developed a sudden or persistent toothache or dislodged a tooth or restoration? Acting quickly in such emergencies can make a huge difference in saving your smile. The sooner you reach a qualified practitioner, the sooner they can assess the extent of the damage. Then, they can begin working on solutions before the issue progresses.
However, not all dentists are the same; some are better at certain procedures than others and finding the right provider is essential to protecting and preserving your grin. If you’re unsure what qualities to look for, keep reading to learn 3 helpful suggestions!
Characteristic #1: Same-Day Appointments
When you’re in the middle of an urgent scenario or are in pain, the last thing you want to do is have to wait a day or two just to be seen by someone. Fortunately, many dentists offer same-day appointments, so you don’t have to wait for some much-needed relief. Even if your provider doesn’t list same-day appointments, it’s possible they can fit you in. The best way to find out is to check their website or just call the main office to ask whether they can see you immediately.
Characteristic #2: Variety of Treatments
Some practices focus on certain specialties or only offer specific services, like dental implants or cosmetics. If you’re having a dental emergency, you’ll want to see someone who offers a wide range of services rather than focusing on certain ones, especially if you’re not certain what treatments will be needed.
For example, an aching, infected tooth might require an emergency root canal that must then be capped with a dental crown to shield it. If your dentist doesn’t offer these procedures, they’ll have to refer you out to someone who does. You can save on time and expenses by verifying beforehand what solutions are provided on their website.
Characteristic #3: Payment Options
Many dental insurance policies include a certain amount of coverage for emergency services, but there’s no guarantee. Furthermore, many patients don’t have a plan and must pay out of pocket. Although dental disasters tend to be less expensive than medical ones, it’s natural to worry about the cost.
Plenty of providers offer methods to help make urgent services more affordable, including flexible financing through third-party vendors like CareCredit. If your application is approved, you can break up your final invoice into more manageable monthly installments.
Now that you know what to look for when seeking immediate help for a dental emergency, you’ll be able to find the right person or practice to address the problem!
About the Author
Dr. Ifraitekh is passionate about helping patients build happy, healthy smiles for life. He earned his dental degree from Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, and is committed to continuing education to stay abreast of the latest technology and techniques. He offers a wide array of services to conveniently meet your needs under one roof, and takes the time to get to know your unique concerns to tailor treatments to meet them. Then, he utilizes state-of-the-art equipment to deliver accurate, long-lasting results. You can request a same-day emergency appointment on the website or call (512) 371-7239.