Have you ever gotten confused seeing the different types of dentists? Have you ever wondered how an emergency dentist is different from a general dentist? If yes, we have got you covered.

In general, a lot of people make the common mistake of taking their dental health lightly. This is one of the main reasons why we are mostly confused between different types of dental care. Whether you have a sudden toothache or a routine checkup, understanding which dentist to visit can make a significant difference in maintaining your smile.

This article will help you in making the right choice.

Who is an Emergency Dentist?

An emergency dentist treats oral health issues immediately that require urgent attention. These involve situations where prompt treatment is required to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, or even address a life-threatening situation.

In simpler words, emergency dental care deals with severe and unexpected dental problems that cannot wait for a routine checkup. It can be anything from a severe toothache, profuse bleeding, knocked-out teeth, trauma, intense swelling, or infection.

When you experience any such situation, make sure to not delay in seeking professional help. The important part about emergency dental care is that acting immediately can increase your chances of saving a tooth and prevent further complications.

Who is a General Dentist?

A routine checkup at a general dentist’s office is an integral part of maintaining your oral health. This checkup allows you to discuss your concerns with the dentist. The dentist, on the other hand, can provide you with the required steps or guidance to maintain good oral health.

It is recommended to regularly visit a dentist every 6 months to ensure that your health is in good shape. This proactive approach can save you from sudden pain or extensive tooth treatments in the future.

What is the Difference Between an Emergency Dentist and a General Dentist?

An emergency dentist and a general dentist differ in their purpose for maintaining oral health. An emergency dentist addresses your urgent dental issues that require immediate attention including severe tooth pain, infection, or broken tooth. The dental care provided by an emergency dentist immediately relieves pain and prevents further complications.

On the contrary, a general dentist provides preventative care and focuses on maintaining your oral health. Routine checkups at a general dentist can help you detect potential problems in the early stages before they escalate into emergencies. Moreover, the dentist also performs dental cleaning, and X-rays, and provides at-home oral hygiene guidance to maintain your teeth.

While an emergency dentist provides immediate support to relieve pain and address immediate conditions, a general dentist aims to prevent such occurrences through consistent maintenance and early treatment if required.

When To Visit an Emergency Dentist?

When it comes to dental emergencies, knowing when to visit an emergency dentist is crucial for your oral health. While you must be scheduling your regular dental visits in advance, emergency dental care requires prompt attention. You should, however, know when a dental situation qualifies as an emergency.

For instance, if you experience sudden and severe tooth pain or if your tooth is broken due to a trauma or an accident, it is important to immediately seek professional help. Such situations qualify as dental emergencies and require immediate attention. Other uncommon dental emergencies also include broken crowns or abscesses.

At times, the emergency may not be apparent yet it should be addressed immediately. For instance, if you have persistent bleeding gums or notice a sudden swelling in your mouth that is getting worse with time, it’s time for you to act immediately and consult a dentist as soon as possible.

To Sum It Up

In a nutshell, both emergency and general dentists provide specialized dental care to your oral health issues. While an emergency dentist deals with prompt dental attention, a general dentist is more focused on preventative care.

If you have a dental emergency and wish to visit an expert emergency dentist, you can visit us at Osseo Family Dental or schedule an appointment with us here.