Emergency Dentist vs. Walk-In Clinic: Who Do You Call First?

Why Your Emergency Dentist Should Be Your First Call

We Have the Dental Equipment Medical Clinics Don't.

Let me be frank with you – I've lost count of how many patients have told me, "I spent three hours at the walk-in clinic, and all they gave me was a prescription and your phone number."

As an emergency dentist, I also have special equipment at my fingertips that medical offices simply don't keep in supply. If you lost your crown during dinner, I can generally recement it the same day. If you've knocked out a tooth, I have the materials to potentially save it – something that requires special dental training and equipment.

You'll Get Faster Relief for Dental Pain

Here's the reality check: ERs and urgent care centers are designed to handle everything from heart attacks to broken arms. They're great at what they do, but dental issues? Not their specialty.

Most ERs can only offer temporary solutions – typically antibiotics and pain relievers. They'll just end up referring you to an emergency dentist anyway. Why not skip the middleman and come see us directly?

Your Wallet Will Thank You

Let's talk dollars and sense. An emergency room visit for a dental issue can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. A visit to the emergency dentist? Typically much less costly. At Conklin Family Dental, we offer same-day emergency appointments because we believe that dental pain can't wait – and your bank account doesn't need to unnecessarily hurt either.

When You Should Go to a Medical Facility First

While I'd prefer to help with all emergencies, there are also situations where medical care should come before dental care:

When Dental Infections Become Severe Call an Emergency Dentist

If your dental infection has progressed to the extent of having difficulty breathing, swallowing problems, or a developing fever, please visit the emergency room right away. These symptoms are a sign the infection has potentially spread from your mouth and requires immediate medical attention.

After Severe Facial Trauma

If you've been struck in the face with a hockey puck and suspect that you have a broken jaw or very severe cuts outside of your teeth, the hospital can treat those complex injuries first. We can handle the dental parts after you are medically stable.

When Bleeding Won't Stop

A little bleeding after you bite your tongue is fine. Bleeding that won't stop after you've had pressure on it for 15 minutes? That needs to be looked at by a doctor first.

How We Prepare for Your Dental Emergency

At Conklin Family Dental, we take emergencies seriously. Here's how we prepare for your emergency:

• We reserve several appointment times each day exclusively for emergencies
• Our team is trained to triage dental emergencies over the phone
• We keep fully equipped emergency dental kits in stock for immediate use
• Our staff regularly refreshes its emergency care training
• We provide clear aftercare instructions to speed your recovery

What to Do While Waiting for Your Emergency Dental Appointment

Called our office and coming in soon? Here's what to do meanwhile:

• For that killer toothache: Rinse with warm saltwater (not hot!) and take over-the-counter painkillers as instructed
• Knocked-out tooth? Keep it wet in milk or in your cheek (not water – it will harm the roots!)
• Broken tooth? Save any pieces you can find and rinse gently with warm water
• For swelling: Apply a cold compress to your cheek (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off)
• Bleeding? Apply gentle pressure with a clean tea bag (the tannic acid encourages clots)

Preventing Your Next Dental Emergency

The best emergency is one that never happens! As your emergency dentist, here's my prevention prescription:

• Don't skip those check-ups – we can identify trouble before it's a crisis
• If you're an athlete, use a mouthguard (your teeth will thank you)
• Your teeth aren't tools – don't use them to open packages!
• Those popcorn seeds and hard candies? Tooth-crackers in disguise
• That toothache? Don't wait until you can't stand it

Your Brantford Emergency Dentist is Waiting

At Conklin Family Dental, we understand that dental emergencies don't happen at convenient times. That's why we prioritize emergency dental care for our patients. If you're experiencing a dental emergency, call us immediately at 519-805-8181. Our team at 360 Conklin Road, Unit D in Brantford is ready to provide the prompt, professional care you need.

Remember, when your tooth is screaming for help, your emergency dentist should be your first call – we're specially trained to handle exactly what's wrong with you.