Emergency visits

Who does it and how long it takes

Usually Dr. Whitlock, who holds most of our emergency slots.

30-60 minutes for the exam, an X-ray and relief of pain. Follow-up treatment is booked separately.

What happens

1. Call first. We keep emergency slots every day we are open and will tell you if the earliest one is today.
2. An exam and an X-ray of the tooth, then treatment to relieve the pain.
3. A written plan and estimate for anything that needs a second visit.

Afterward

• Take over-the-counter pain relief as the label directs, and call us if swelling grows.

Side effects and risks

• Relief of pain is often temporary; the cause usually needs a filling, a root canal or an extraction afterward.

Alternatives

• Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for trouble breathing or swallowing, swelling spreading to the eye or neck, or a possible broken jaw.

Insurance

An emergency exam and X-ray are usually covered like any exam; treatment follows your plan's percentages. Check your benefits before you book.