When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
If you have trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, severe facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or major trauma, seek emergency medical care immediately.
ER vs Oral Surgeon: Where Should I Go?
Learn when to seek emergency medical care vs calling an oral surgeon for swelling, abscess, broken teeth, extraction needs, facial trauma, or post-op concerns.
What to Know
When to Call an Oral Surgeon
Call for oral surgery guidance about dental infection, extraction needs, wisdom teeth, implant complications, post-op concerns, or non-life-threatening swelling.
Dental Abscess or Swelling
Swelling can become serious. The right setting depends on airway symptoms, severity, fever, medical history, and availability.
Facial Trauma
Major trauma belongs in emergency medical care first; follow-up oral and facial surgery evaluation may be part of ongoing care.
Treatment recommendations depend on your evaluation, medical history, imaging, and surgical plan. If you have trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, severe facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or major trauma, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Helpful OFSIH Links
FAQs
Should I go to the ER for a toothache?
If symptoms include trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, severe facial swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, or major trauma, seek emergency medical care immediately. Otherwise call for oral surgery guidance.
Can OFSIH help with extractions after urgent symptoms are addressed?
The team can help evaluate extraction and replacement options when appropriate after urgent concerns are addressed.
Can I call during office hours?
Yes. Call OFSIH to discuss availability and the right next step.