What Qualifies as a True Dental Emergency?
Direct Access to the Dentist When the Office Is Closed
At Hawley Lane Dental, after-hours calls are not routed to a generic answering service. Instead, they go directly to Dr. Kristy Gretzula through a dedicated Google Voice number. This setup allows for immediate, personal communication between the patient and the dentist, even outside of normal office hours.
Texting and Photo Sharing for Quick Assessment
The Google Voice line also allows patients to send text messages and share photos of the affected area. This makes it possible for Dr. Gretzula to visually assess the situation right away, which is especially valuable when determining whether the problem can wait until morning or requires urgent attention.
Understanding What Qualifies as a True Dental Emergency
Many patients aren’t sure if their situation requires immediate dental care, especially when something happens at night or over the weekend. While most dental concerns can safely wait until the next morning without risk of worsening, certain issues require urgent attention. A true dental emergency typically involves symptoms that could quickly escalate or threaten long-term oral health if left untreated , such as intense or unrelenting pain, swelling that interferes with breathing or swallowing, severe bleeding, or a tooth that has been completely knocked out.
When Immediate In-Office Care Is Needed
For established patients, Dr. Gretzula has come into the office after hours when the situation called for it. One example involved a complex case that required coordination with a specialist over the weekend to ensure the patient received timely treatment.
The Importance of Reassurance
Even when an emergency visit is not required right away, patients often call after hours because they are anxious or unsure about their symptoms. Having a direct line to the dentist offers peace of mind and guidance on what to do next, whether that’s taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, applying ice, or simply resting until the office reopens.
Clear and Transparent Emergency Costs
Patients are given upfront information about emergency visit costs. An after-hours consultation starts at $150. If treatment is performed during the emergency visit, the cost can range up to $300 or more depending on the procedure.
Why This Approach Matters to Patients
This direct, personal approach to after-hours care ensures patients are never left wondering what to do when a dental problem arises at night or over the weekend. It offers both practical solutions and emotional reassurance, helping patients feel cared for even when the office doors are closed.
Contact Us for Any Dental Emergency After Hours
Knowing what to do when tooth pain strikes after hours can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Hawley Lane Dental, we make it easy to get the guidance and care you need, whether it’s a late-night toothache or a question about urgent treatment. Call our office today to speak directly with our team or to schedule an appointment. If you’re experiencing severe pain, swelling, or another true dental emergency, Dr. Gretzula is available as your trusted emergency dentist to help you take the right next step toward relief.
What Our Clients Say about Our Dental Clinic:
“My visit was excellent….wish I could give ten stars! Kristen cleaned my teeth beyond what I expected and the receptionist was very welcoming as are all the staff. Would highly recommend this practice to anyone.”
Rating: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
John K.
Read more of our 371+ reviews on Google!
-
Monday - 9:00am–5:00pm
-
Tuesday - 8:00am–5:00pm
-
Wednesday - 8:00am–5:00pm
-
Thursday - 8:00am–5:00pm
-
Friday - 8:00am–5:00pm
