When a dental emergency strikes, Merit Dental is here to help.
Dental Emergencies
Dental emergencies can strike at any time. They can also be painful, stressful, and require immediate attention. In such situations, finding a reliable emergency dentist becomes crucial.
Below, we’ll help you find an emergency dentist. We’ll cover everything from understanding what constitutes a dental emergency to what to expect during your visit. We’ll even explore what questions you should ask your dentist, insurance considerations, and how to manage pain before your appointment.
We’ll even give you tips on how to prevent future dental emergencies.
Let’s dive in and explore all the details about emergency dentists near you.
Understanding Dental Emergencies
A dental emergency is a situation that requires immediate attention from a dental professional. It often involves severe pain, bleeding, or injury to the mouth.
Common dental emergencies include toothaches, broken or knocked-out teeth, and lost fillings or crowns. Infections and abscesses, which can spread and cause serious health issues, also qualify as emergencies.
Understanding the difference between a standard dental issue and an emergency is crucial. Not all dental problems require immediate attention, but delaying treatment for a true emergency can lead to further complications.
Immediate Steps to Take in a Dental Emergency
When a dental emergency occurs, it’s important to stay calm and act quickly. The first step is to assess the situation.
If you’re dealing with a knocked-out tooth, for example, try to find the tooth and rinse it gently without touching the root. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can provide temporary relief for severe pain or swelling.
After assessing the situation calmly, contact an emergency dentist near you. If it’s outside normal business hours, you may need to search for a 24-hour emergency dentist .
Finally, after speaking with the dentist, follow their instructions to the letter. This will ensure your treatment goes smoothly once you arrive at the office.
Services Emergency Dentists Offer
Emergency dentists at Merit Dental offer a wide range of services. Our dentists can handle everything from toothaches to broken teeth and lost fillings. They can also handle more severe cases, such as abscesses, infections, and dental trauma.
It’s important to understand that while emergency dentists near you can handle most dental issues, they may have limitations. For complex cases, they may refer you to a specialist.
Always check the emergency dentist’s scope of services before making an appointment.
What to Expect During Your Visit
During your visit to an emergency dentist , you can expect a thorough examination. The dentist will identify the problem and discuss the best course of action with you.
Pain management is a top priority in emergency dental care. The dentist will ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
You may also need to provide your medical history and a list of any medications you are taking. This information helps the dentist provide the safest and most effective treatment.
After the procedure, the dentist will give you aftercare instructions. This may include pain management, cleaning instructions, and when to schedule a follow-up visit.
Remember, communication is key. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express any concerns you may have.
Questions to Ask Your Emergency Dentist
When contacting dentists about emergency dental care near you, it’s important to ask the right questions. This will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare for your visit.
Ask about their availability. Can they see you immediately, or will you need to wait? Inquire about the types of insurance they accept. If you don’t have insurance, ask about their payment options.
You should also ask about the procedures they perform. This will help you understand if they can handle your specific dental issue.
Remember, it’s important to have all the necessary information before you make a decision.
Insurance and Payment Considerations
When dealing with a dental emergency, understanding your insurance coverage is crucial. Some dental insurances cover emergency procedures, while others may not.
If you don’t have dental insurance, don’t panic. Merit Dental has many payment options to make emergency dental care more affordable, including:
Credit Cards: We accept all major credit cards for flexible payment options.
Care Credit: We also accept Care Credit, which often offers great financing deals, allowing you to stretch out your repayment terms with little to no interest.
In-House Financing: You can also get in-house financing that allows you to spread the cost of your dental care over several months.
It’s important to discuss these details with the dental office before your visit. This will help you avoid any unexpected costs.
Remember, delaying treatment due to cost concerns can lead to more serious health issues. It’s always best to seek immediate care and discuss payment options later.
Managing Pain Before Your Appointment
If you’re in pain while waiting for your appointment, you can manage it in a few ways.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, but avoid aspirin as it can thin your blood and cause bleeding during or after the procedure.
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also provide relief. It helps to reduce swelling and soothe sore areas.
Remember, these are temporary solutions. It’s important to see an emergency dentist as soon as possible to address the root cause of the pain.
Preventing Future Dental Emergencies
Preventing dental emergencies starts with good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing can keep your teeth and gums healthy. Regular dental checkups are also crucial, as they allow your dentist to spot potential issues before they become emergencies.
A balanced diet is another key factor. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D can strengthen your teeth.
Finally, wearing a mouthguard during sports can prevent injuries. It’s a simple step that can save you from a lot of pain and expense.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Taking care of your oral health can prevent future dental emergencies.
Get Your Dental Emergency Handled at Merit Dental
Finding an emergency dentist to handle your problems isn’t challenging. In fact, you’ve already found the best emergency dentist at Merit Dental. Our experienced dentists are ready to tackle your dental emergency and get you back to a normal, pain-free life.
Remember, timely treatment is crucial in a dental emergency. Call Merit Dental now at to see an emergency dentist near you today.
Google Reviews
Leah BlaydonMay. 2, 2025
Always a pleasant and professional experience!
Arber BinajMay. 2, 2025
Great service and great staff. I recently had a filling done by Dr. Enea , and I couldn't be happier with the results.
Phillip KingApr. 30, 2025
I had my cleaning completed by Gurneek. She was kind, gentle and explained everything she was doing. A+ to you!!!
Jen FApr. 30, 2025
Big fan of Merit Dental. They’re all very kind and take time to address any questions/concerns.
Britt attingerApr. 30, 2025
Amazing staff
Carissa NickellApr. 29, 2025
I’ve been going to Merit Dental my entire life! When I was little into my early teen years, they had a “no cavity club” for pediatric patients — if you didn’t have a cavity, you’d get a st...
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Tashenia EasonApr. 25, 2025
I have been going to this dentist over a year now. The staff are always friendly and supportive. My visit is always amazing glad I switched over to this dentist.
Tim SheckelsApr. 24, 2025
First time visit! Wonderful care! I’m 72 years old and still left with a smile and saying to myself ( to my Mom in Heaven) “Look Ma, no cavities!! So glad I found this dentist!
Paul WoodieApr. 24, 2025
cheerful environs and employees but also thorough, attentive and efficient service.
Theodore WybensingerApr. 24, 2025
Always friendly, Efficient, and make you feel like home. Dr Miley is the best and his staff go above and beyond.
Lydia, the hygienist Very personable and puts the work in on your teeth.
I’ve been going to Merit Dental my entire life! When I was little into my early teen years, they had a “no cavity club” for pediatric patients — if you didn’t have a cavity, you’d get a sticker and a photo taken, with your photo put on the wall for the “no cavity club” (plus a goodie bag). I had a gap in care due to insurance changes and being gone for college. I was super nervous to go back after this gap in care. I explained my fears to my hygienist. After the appointment (and no cavities), I asked if they still gave out no cavity stickers (even though I’m no longer a little kid). My hygienist went out of her way to make the little girl in me super happy and found me a sticker and a complimentary goodie. Thank you for making my day and making my nerves go away. Highly recommend going here — happy lifetime patient with a staff that truly cares.
I have been going to this dentist over a year now. The staff are always friendly and supportive. My visit is always amazing glad I switched over to this dentist.
First time visit! Wonderful care! I’m 72 years old and still left with a smile and saying to myself ( to my Mom in Heaven) “Look Ma, no cavities!! So glad I found this dentist!
Always friendly, Efficient, and make you feel like home. Dr Miley is the best and his staff go above and beyond.
Lydia, the hygienist Very personable and puts the work in on your teeth.