Dentistry in the emergency department

Dental problems are commonly seen in the emergency department. Although most emergency physicians have had little formal training in dentistry, the majority of these problems can be diagnosed and treated without the need for emergent dental consultation. The necessary procedures may require initial instruction by a cooperative consultant but are easily learned and well within the scope of practice of the emergency physician. Time invested in familiarization with the diagnosis and treatment of the more common dental problems will be rewarded with patient satisfaction.