I was at a small music venue, which also is a bar. A small fight broke out which I wasn’t actually a part of. Somehow, I think the bouncer mistook me for one of the fighters because he punched me. I left after that. I noticed this morning the tooth where he punched is loose. I know enough to know I have to get this taken care of immediately. However, I don’t have the money. Can the venue be billed? It was their bouncer who unjustly slugged me.
Hunter
Dear Hunter,
A loose tooth is a dental emergency.
You are wise to know that a loose tooth is a dental emergency. Unfortunately, unless the venue agrees ahead of time there is not a legal way for a dentist to bill them. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t receive the treatment you need. Most dentists are compassionate and went into their field because they wanted to help people.
I’m sure you’ll find at least one who is willing to treat you and then allow you to pay out the bill as you go. If you have trouble, you may try doing an internet search for an affordable dentist. They are usually more willing to work with people. Often, they provide in-office payment plans.
What to Expect at Your Emergency Dental Appointment
With a loose adult tooth, they will do x-rays to make sure there is no internal damage. If all else is fine, then the dentist will splint the tooth to keep it stable while the ligaments heal. It is very likely the ligaments were just stretched in the brawl.
If there is internal damage then the dentist will likely have to do a root canal treatment. Either way, you should be able to save the tooth.
If the Tooth Cannot Be Saved
If, for some reason, the tooth can’t be saved there are incredible tooth replacements these days. The best tooth replacement is a dental implant. However, they are quite expensive. If that turns out to be necessary, you may want to file a claim with small claims court to recoup your money from the venue.
This blog is brought to you by Auburn Dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.