The Journal of the American College of Dentists
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Individuals lacking access to dentists may use hospital emergency departments (EDs) or physicians (MDs) for the management of their dental problems. This study examined visits by minority and low-income individuals to physicians and hospital emergency departments for the treatment of dental problems with the goal of exploring the nature of treatment provided and patient satisfaction with the care received. ⋯ Poor/minority individuals seek relief from oral pain through MDs/ EDs while recognizing that such care is not definitive.