Dental conditions continue to be a common reason why patients visit the emergency room. Most patients visiting an emergency room receive an injection, prescription for pain or antibiotics. The American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute estimates that up to 79% of dental emergency room visits would be better served by being seen in community settings.
Our government programs perform specific outreach to members who may have repeat visits to the emergency room to focus on prevention and to divert patients back to community dentists. Hospitals are also considering emergency room referral programs, making use of in-house dental clinics, urgent care centers and partnerships with practices accepting referrals.
You can play an important role in preventing patients from visiting the emergency room for dental concerns by:
Together, we can help patients engage in good dental care practices, avoiding unnecessary and expensive emergency room treatments.