When a toothache strikes, every minute feels like an eternity. You don’t want to waste time doing research and weighing your options of where to turn for help. Dental emergencies like this require quick action, which means the time for looking for a good emergency dentist is not when you’re in the middle of one. Before you have an urgent situation, look for a provider who meets these basic standards.
Same-Day Appointments Available
Emergency situations are urgent and need to be addressed as soon as possible. If your dentist pushes off seeing you until the following day or later, you deserve to have a better provider! Especially if you are in pain or have knocked out a tooth, your dentist should make your care a priority with an immediate or same-day appointment.
Sedation Services
Experiencing an emergency of any kind can be frightening, and when it comes to your smile, your stress levels could shoot up. Your dentist should offer sedation options to help calm your fears. Nitrous oxide is gentle and fast acting, or IV sedation is powerful for more severe situations. Knowing you have the choice of getting sedation can put your mind at ease.
Cutting-Edge Technology
A good emergency dentist doesn’t just rely on their own eyes alone when it comes to diagnosing and treating a painful problem. In fact, they take advantage of innovative technology like a cavity detection system, which can identify cavities early in development. As a result, this system can actually help your dentist spot and treat the cavity before it causes you pain, preventing your emergency in the first place!
In addition, 3D imaging technology reveals in greater detail the extent of the damage or decay, helping your dentist know exactly what treatment will resolve the issue and ease your pain.
If you require a dental crown or other restoration, digital impressions are far more accurate than traditional putty impressions, and they are also more comfortable for you.
Insurance Accepted and Financing Offered
Although pain and urgency can dominate your thoughts during a dental emergency, in the back of your mind, you may still be concerned about how much this situation will cost. Choosing a dentist who works with your insurance or is in-network allows you to maximize savings and take full advantage of your benefits. Your dental team can look at and explain your policy, so you know what to expect in terms of the price.
If you have out-of-pocket expenses and you don’t want to pay them all right away, your dental team should help you apply for financing, which can break up the total into easier monthly payments.
Taking the time to search now—before a dental emergency occurs—can ensure that you choose the right dentist and practice to help you through the situation.
About the Practice
Diamond Bright Dental has a team of dental and specialty experts on staff, and we use some of the latest technology in the field, including a cavity detection system, 3D cone beam scanner, and digital impressions. We offer same-day appointments for emergency patients and offer nitrous oxide, IV, and oral conscious sedation for those who feel anxious. Our practice is in-network with multiple plans, and we accept Medi-Cal and Medicaid as well as payment through CareCredit. If you have questions about our emergency services, you may call our Arleta practice at 818-233-0909 or go online here.