Emergencies
If you are experiencing dental pain, swelling, or fever, you may contact Dr. Freiberg on his cell phone. (His phone number is listed on the office answering machine at 286-9175.) Medication to alleviate pain and infection will likely be prescribed until an appropriate appointment time can be scheduled during regular business hours. In the case of trauma (i.e. a knocked out tooth or a bitten tongue), Dr. Freiberg may need to see you immediately.
Pain Management
Most tooth and mouth pain is best managed by over the counter, anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen (i.e. Advil or Motrin). Pain can often be managed with as little as 200-400mg of ibuprofen up to four times per day. If pain persists, 500mg of acetominophen (i.e. Tylenol) can be added to the ibuprofen. In extreme cases, a narcotic like Tylenol 3 may need to be prescribed.
Your Rights as a Patient
- You have the right to the best dental treatments available regardless of insurance policy restrictions.
- You have a right to ask your dentist to explain all the treatment options regardless of coverage or cost.
- You have a right to ask about treatment alternatives and be
told, in language you can understand, the advantages and disadvantages
of each. - You have a right to know in advance the type and expected cost of treatment.
- You have the right to seek a second opinion for any recommended treatment.
- You have a right to expect dental team members to use appropriate infection and sterilization controls.
- You have a right to be treated in a professional and ethical manner by your dentist and dental team.
- You have a right to know the education and training of your dentist and the dental team.
