Everything You Need to Know About 24/7 Emergency Dental Services in Herndon

Dental emergencies often happen at the most inopportune time. They always seem to happen during a long weekend or just after your dentist’s office has closed.

But knowing where to turn when they happen is crucial in protecting your dental and oral health.

Keep reading to learn about 24/7 emergency dental services in Herndon, including when to seek them and how to find the right dental clinic for your needs.

What Is a Dental Emergency?

It’s not always easy to know if you should seek urgent care for a dental issue. If you’re like most people, you try to deal with the pain and tough it out.

But this isn’t always the best option. As a good rule of thumb, if you’re experiencing severe pain, heavy bleeding, or if something just doesn’t seem right, don’t wait to seek care.

Some situations that require immediate attention include:

  • Severe toothache that isn’t going away with over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Infected or abscessed tooth
  • Bleeding that doesn’t stop
  • Knocked-out tooth
  • Cracked or broken teeth
  • Swelling in the jaw or face

What Happens During an Emergency Visit to the Dentist?

If you’ve never had to make an urgent dental appointment, you may be wondering what to expect. Most emergency clinics are able to diagnose and treat serious issues.

When you approve, you’ll be asked to fill out basic paperwork. You’ll then be examined by a dentist.

X-rays may be taken to pinpoint any issues beneath the surface of the tooth.

Afterwards, the provider will discuss a treatment plan. For example, if you have an infection, you’ll likely be prescribed antibiotics.

If you have a cracked or broken tooth, a temporary fix may be used to relieve pain and then a permanent repair can be scheduled later on.

How to Find Reputable 24/7 Emergency Dental Services in Herndon

If you’re in pain or have a serious dental issue, you don’t have time to waste. Check out these tips to find trusted 24/7 emergency dental services in Herndon.

  • Do a quick internet search. You can easily find clinics in your area that offer urgent care. Make a list of the providers who are available around the clock, including after hours and on the weekends.
  • Check with your insurer. To lower the amount of money you’ll pay out of pocket, contact your insurer or use their online direction to find an in-network emergency clinic.
  • Ask your regular dentist. It’s not uncommon for dental offices to partner with urgent care clinics. Contact them to get after-hours contact information. 
  • Read reviews. A clinic’s reputation can say a lot. Find one that has consistent positive feedback, especially from patients who have sought emergency care. Pay close attention to details about a provider’s communication style, mannerisms, and the office environment.

What to Do Before Your Appointment

In the event that you have to wait a few hours for your appointment, here are some quick tips to try to manage pain and to protect your teeth.

  • Rinse your mouth using warm salt water to ease pain
  • Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
  • Don’t chew on the affected side

If you have a knocked out tooth, pick it up by the crown, gently rinse it, and place it back in the socket if possible. Otherwise, put the tooth in milk to prevent it from drying out.

Schedule a Same or Next-Day Appointment at Perfect Smiles of Reston

Don’t take your dental health for granted! If you’re dealing with an injury, sudden pain, or if something just doesn’t seem right, get the emergency services you need at Perfect Smiles of Reston.

We’re here when you need us the most.

Call our office anytime at 703-982-7355 to be seen ASAP.

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