The worst time to search for an emergency dentist is the exact moment you need one. Nothing is less ideal than trying to do research while in pain! But assuming you don’t have a toothache right now, what should you look for when choosing one? Having a go-to emergency dentist is great for peace of mind and can save you a lot of time if an urgent situation pops up. Be sure to focus on the following factors so you can feel confident about your decision.
Proximity to Your Home or Office
This seems like a no-brainer, but when time is of the essence, the location of your emergency dentist becomes a big deal. The best dentist in the world isn’t really helpful if they’re over an hour away! Before you look at anything else, check the office’s website to ensure they are within an acceptable driving distance.
Same-Day Appointments
More specifically, does the office say that they’re willing to schedule same-day appointments for emergencies? This should be stated plainly on either the homepage or the practice’s emergency page. If you can’t find any language that indicates they’ll see you quickly if you’re in pain, then move on. You shouldn’t have to wait a day or two when dealing with a pressing dental issue!
Read the Dentist’s Bio
Every website will have at least a brief bio about the main dentist. In addition to seeing what kind of experience they have (have they been practicing for decades and dealt with countless emergencies, or are they just out of school?), see if they have any special training or are in professional organizations focused on restorative or cosmetic dentistry. This means they have the skills needed to repair damaged teeth as well as restore the appearance of your smile.
Check Out Their Technology
Visiting a practice with advanced technology can save you precious seconds that could help save your tooth. A practice with state-of-the-art imaging will be able to determine the source of your problem and figure out how to fix it quickly and precisely. If they have this kind of technology, it should be easy to find on their website.
In a perfect world, you would never have to make an emergency dental visit, but taking a little time to find the right professional can make all the difference if life catches you off guard with a surprise toothache or dental injury.
About the Author
Dr. Michael Kirk has served Oklahoma City as a trusted family, emergency, and implant dentist for over 30 years. If you or a loved one is experiencing dental pain or has knocked out a tooth, he and our team won’t make you wait to get in. We have always accepted same-day appointments for urgent situations, and the fastest way to get scheduled with us is by calling (405) 848-3719.