Imagine this. After a long week, you decide to curl up with your favorite blanket for a relaxing at-home movie night. As the credits begin, you reach for some freshly popped popcorn and sink into your couch a little deeper. You toss back another handful of buttery goodness when your teeth come down hard on an unpopped kernel – OUCH!
What do you do? Where should you go if it is an evening, weekend, or holiday? To prevent a painful dental injury from becoming even more anxiety-inducing, get prepared beforehand. Here are five tips to help from an emergency dentist in Houston!
#1. Start Your Search in Your City
Whether you sustain a small crack or have your tooth completely knocked-out, the last thing you want is to drive an hour out of town to get the treatment you need – especially if you are in pain! Therefore, start your search with practices within 20 minutes of the places you frequent most, like your office, your house, or your child’s school. After all, your dentist has the highest likelihood of saving your tooth within 30 minutes of the accident!
#2. Narrow It Down to Those Who Accept Your Dental Insurance
It’s no secret that dental care can quickly become pricey. Fortunately, that’s where insurance comes in! Since each dental plan is unique, ask ahead of time if the dental team you are considering accepts yours. Otherwise, your already chaotic experience will be topped off with a hefty bill!
#3. Ask About Their Hours
Dental injuries are never convenient, but they can be especially troublesome when they occur in the evening, on a weekend, or during a holiday. So, ask about their hours! Even if their standard office hours are 9 AM to 5 PM, they may have a special hotline where they can be reached on such occasions.
#4. Find Out What Services They Provide
Getting fast, effective relief is important, but what happens next? For example, if your knocked-out tooth cannot be saved, it is beneficial to have a dentist who offers tooth replacement options, like dental implants. Selecting a dentist who provides a comprehensive array of services under one roof is crucial, especially in an emergency!
#5. Ask What Ages They Treat
Do you have parents who live close by? Or a little smile you are looking after? Ask if they treat patients of all ages! That way, if your loved one finds themselves with a painful toothache or cracked tooth, you know where to find the treatment they need.
Dental emergencies can be painful and chaotic, but the experience goes a lot smoother if you are prepared ahead of time. Fortunately, you can use the above tips to find an emergency dentist today!
About the Author
Dr. Mark E. Lawton completed his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University before earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School. Nearly two decades later, he continues to stay up to date on the latest technology and techniques by participating in the Spear Study Club and completing countless hours of continuing education. If you or a loved one experiences a sudden dental injury in the Greater Inwood area, don’t hesitate to visit his website or give him a call at 281-447-2186.