Some dental emergencies, like an adult tooth getting knocked out, are fairly obvious. However, it may be difficult to determine if symptoms such as a lingering toothache require attention from an emergency dentist. At Legacy Dental Arts in Eagle River, AK, they offer same-day emergency care to ensure your oral and physical health are protected.

When You Should Call an Emergency Dentist

If you suffer from any of the following, you should seek immediate treatment from an emergency dentist:

• Knocked-Out Tooth: If your tooth is knocked out in an accident, you need to call your dentist immediately. If you have the tooth, they may be able to successfully reattach it. Otherwise, they may recommend replacing the lost tooth with a dental implant.
• Cracked or Broken Tooth: A cracked or broken tooth may or may not be a dental emergency. If a large portion of the tooth is missing, or if it looks like the crack extends below the gum line, you should call your dentist. They can determine whether you need emergency treatment or if it can wait until the next day.
• Severe Toothache: Severe tooth and jaw pain that is not alleviated by over-the-counter pain medication or ice may require immediate attention. While it’s possible the tooth has a deep cavity that requires a root canal, it’s also possible that the tooth is abscessed, which is a medical emergency.

Of course, if you aren’t sure if you need emergency treatment, call anyway. The dentist on call can assess your symptoms and determine whether you need to be seen right away, or if they can prescribe pain medication and schedule you an appointment for the next day.

The emergency dentists at Legacy Dental Arts are here to help in your time of need. Just give them a call at (907) 622­-7874, and they’ll get you in for an emergency appointment. For more information on the services they offer, check out their website.