Going to an ER vs. Going to an Actual Dentist…

This video compares the pros and cons of going to an ER to reduce dental pain and a dental emergency versus going to see an actual dentist.

In this vlog, we will cover what an ER can do for you during a dental emergency. First, let’s talk about the pros of going to an ER for dental pain.

Pros of Going to an ER for Dental Pain:

1. Immediate Attention: If you’re experiencing severe dental pain and your dentist is not available, the Er can provide immediate attention to address your pain and discomfort
2. Availability: Emergency rooms are open 24/7 so you can get treatment for your pain any time of the day or night.
3. Diagnosis: ERs are equipped with many diagnostic tools such as X-rays and CT scans, which can help identify the underlying cause of your dental pain.

Cons of Going to an ER for Dental Pain:

1. Limited Dental Expertise: The medical professionals at an ER may not have specialized training in dental care. Therefore, they may not be able to provide the comprehensive treatment that a dentist can.
2. Cost: Believe it or not, emergency room visits can be more expensive than visiting a dentist—especially if you don’t have insurance or if your insurance cannot cover the cost of the visit.
3. No Follow-Up Care: Emergency Rooms are designed to provide immediate treatment for emergencies. However, they do not typically provide ongoing dental care. Therefore, you’ll still need to see the dentist for follow-up care.

Pros of Seeing a Dentist for Dental Pain:

1. Expertise: Dentists are trained to diagnose and treat dental problems so they can provide more comprehensive care than a general practitioner in an emergency room.
2. Cost: Visiting a dentist can be less expensive than going to an emergency room. Especially if you have dental insurance that covers the cost of the visit.
3. Follow Up Care: Dentists can provide ongoing care and treatment which can help prevent future dental problems.

If you’re interested in learning more about emergency dental care, feel free to contact the friendly team at Dental Arts San Diego! Give us a call at (619) 444-1001 or click here to schedule an appointment. We are located at 707 Arnele Avenue, El Cajon, CA, 92020.