If you get intense tooth pain, some swelling, or if you’ve had a dental injury, you might ask yourself, should I really go to A&E? A&E stands for Accident and Emergency, basically the hospital place that offers urgent care for serious health problems and injuries. But quite a few dental emergencies are often better judged and treated by an emergency dentist instead. If you need last-minute dental help in Norwich, it helps to know where to look so you can get the right type of service sooner.
Should You Go to A&E for Toothache?
For a lot of toothaches, an emergency dentist is, generally speaking, the most suitable healthcare professional.
An emergency dentist in Norwich can look into what’s causing the tooth pain and then provide, or suggest, the right dental treatment.
Reach out to an emergency dentist if you have,
- Severe toothache
- A broken or cracked tooth
- A lost filling or crown that’s causing problems
- Dental pain that comes with an infection
- A damaged or knocked-out tooth
When Should You Go to A&E?
A&E might be suitable if you notice serious symptoms like
– Trouble breathing
– Trouble swallowing
– Big swelling that impacts the airway
– Serious injuries around the face or jaw
– A lot of bleeding that won’t settle, or won’t stop
If there’s an immediate threat to life, get emergency medical help right away.
Can A&E Treat a Dental Infection?
A&E provides emergency medical treatment for serious conditions. However, many dental problems require assessment and definitive treatment from a dentist.
The appropriate service depends on your symptoms and the severity of the condition.
What Should You Do for an Urgent Dental Problem?
If it’s urgent dental care you need, contact your dentist.
Go ahead and clearly explain your symptoms; don’t hold back.
Just follow the guidance you are given, pretty straightforward.
And if an emergency dental appointment is suggested, attend it.
If you are not sure where to go for help beyond normal dental opening hours, some suitable healthcare services can offer directions or advice.
Can I Call NHS 111 for a Dental Emergency?
NHS 111 can provide advice about urgent healthcare needs and help direct people towards appropriate services.
The options available may depend on your symptoms and location.
Emergency Dentist vs A&E
An emergency dentist can help with:
- Severe toothache
- Broken teeth
- Lost crowns
- Dental infections
- Dental trauma
- Other urgent dental problems
A&E may be needed for:
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Severe facial injuries
- Serious uncontrolled bleeding
- Severe swelling affecting the airway
Emergency Dental Care in Norwich
For a lot of urgent dental issues, reaching out to an emergency dentist in Norwich is usually the most appropriate first step.
Pearl Dental Surgeries, they can help with dental advice and an assessment for anyone dealing with urgent dental problems around Norwich. Get in touch with the practice so you can talk through your symptoms and also ask about appointment options that are available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I go to A&E for a tooth infection?
Most dental infections require treatment from a dentist. However, serious symptoms affecting breathing or swallowing require immediate medical attention.
Should I go to A&E if my face is swollen from a tooth?
Contact a dentist promptly. If the swelling affects breathing or swallowing, seek immediate emergency medical help.
Can A&E remove a tooth?
Definitive treatment for most dental problems is generally provided by a dental professional.