What To Look for in an Emergency Dentist

An emergency dentist is exactly who you want to see when you are dealing with dental problems that require immediate treatment. Failing to get the necessary treatment for a dental emergency can leave someone dealing with excruciating pain and discomfort. It typically also leads to the problem becoming a lot worse.

Many dental offices make patients who require emergency treatments their priority. Even before an accident happens, it is helpful to take the time to look into emergency dentists in the area and choose one.

Choosing the right emergency dentist

Here are a few things patients should pay close attention to when looking for an emergency dentist:

1. The dentist's reputation

A good way to figure out if a dentist is right for a situation is by going over reviews left by past clients. Thanks to the internet, doing this research is extremely easy. Sites like Google Reviews, Facebook and Yelp are good places to start.

Choosing an oral health professional with a good online reputation helps ensure the patient gets a good level of care. Look for positive reviews left by past clients. Patients should also pay attention to how the dentist deal with reviews that are critical of their services. A good dentist should be willing to acknowledge their shortcomings and take steps to improve the services provided.

2. Average wait times

Anyone dealing with a dental emergency should look for dentists with short wait times. Even having to wait for a few hours could affect how the injury is treated. For example, a knocked-out tooth can usually be reattached, but this needs to be done within a few hours of the injury. For such a patient, it is important to find a dentist that will be able to treat them immediately. Timely treatment also helps to prevent other complications from developing as a result of the treatment.

3. Hours of operation

An emergency dentist should have a practice that goes beyond the typical 9-to-5 schedules many businesses stick to. A dental emergency could occur at the middle of the night but still requires fast treatment. Patients should research the dentist's hours of operation when making a decision. Look for a clinic that sees patients 24/7.

4. Quality facilities

This goes for people looking for an emergency dentist or any other kind of oral care professional. It is best to stick with dentists who run clean facilities that make one feel safe and comfortable. The equipment there should all be in good condition. The office should stick to standard safety practices as recommended by the American Dental Association.

5. Affordability

Emergency dental services tend to cost more than regular appointments, and some insurance policies do not cover them. Patients should ensure the prices for the treatment fit their budget when searching for an emergency dentist.

Need an emergency dentist?

Do not wait for an accident to look for a dentist who offers emergency care. By finding one ahead of time, people can be ready whenever an emergency dental situation does arise.

Request an appointment here: https://alexoldtowndental.com or call Alexandria Old Town Dental at (703) 763-1078 for an appointment in our Alexandria office.

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