I just want to alleviate the fears of a few of you who have mentioned how I should go about diagnosis and treating specific dental issues. My emergency exams always start outside the mouth; palpation of muscles, lymph nodes, review of medical Hx, radiographs (PA and BWX), etc. Appropriate antibiotics and pain meds are Rx'd in cases when called for. I dont even want to look in the mouth until I have checked everything else.

As you might imagine, managing emergencies in a dental office with an already full schedule can be quite a challenge.

Thanks again for all the tips and leads. Frozen peas are a great idea!


Dr. Todd