When it comes to dental emergencies, you never know when one can happen. That’s why it’s a good idea to have an emergency dentist picked out and saved in your contacts ahead of time. It can be difficult to know what next steps to take when you are experiencing a lot of discomfort, so by knowing who to call, you can make that situation much less stressful. As you are choosing an emergency dentist, here are some excellent qualities to look out for.
Location of Practice
The closer you are to your emergency dentist, the better. If you have an urgent dental emergency, like a knocked-out tooth, you have a limited amount of time to get to the dental office to save your tooth. It’s best if you don’t have to drive too far. Check the location of the dentist you are considering to see how close they are to your home.
Financial Options
Getting emergency dental care shouldn’t mean spending an arm and a leg. If you have dental insurance, choose someone who accepts your plan. If they are in-network with your insurance provider – even better! If you don’t have dental insurance, you may want to choose a dentist who has an in-office discount plan. These plans can help patients save on treatments completed at the practice. Another option is to see a dentist who accepts payments through third-party financing companies, like CareCredit. If you are accepted, the cost of your treatment can be split into manageable monthly installments with little to no interest.
Same-Day Appointments
If you have a chipped tooth or loose restoration, you may be able to wait a few days before seeing a dentist. However, if you have a knocked-out tooth or severe toothache, you want to see a dentist as soon as possible! You should look for a dentist who can schedule you an appointment on the same day or accepts walk-ins. Evening and weekend office hours are also a great bonus!
Follow-Ups
After getting dental treatment, you will be sent home to recover. It’s ideal to know how follow-ups work with your emergency dentist. You should know who to call if there are any issues or if you have questions. Be sure that your emergency dentist has a number you can contact for advice, even if you can’t get to the office right away.
When you choose an emergency dentist ahead of time, you can avoid a lot of stress and uncertainty later on. By considering the tips listed above, you will be much more prepared if an emergency ever pops up!
About the Author
Dr. Sam Antoon is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for more than three decades. He earned his dental doctorate from Southern Illinois University’s School of Dental Medicine. Currently, he is a proud member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and Fourth District Dental Society. If you have a dental emergency, he’d be happy to help. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Plano, visit his website or call (972) 640-6229.