Emergency Dental Care
planning for the unplanned
The nature of emergencies is that you don't know when they're going to happen. But we know that they do happen, and this is why we routinely leave appointments open for on-the-spot emergency dental care. If you need immediate care, please call and we will make a time for you.
what qualifies as an emergency?
You are the best judge of this, however pain and loss of function are the most common indicators that urgent care is required. Other symptoms that may require emergency dental care include:
Toothache and/or facial pain
Swelling of gums and/or face
Broken teeth, crowns, veneers, bridges or dentures
Lost dental filling or crown
Continuous bleeding from gums or tooth cavity
WHAT TO DO IN THE MEANTIME
Pain
The best pain relief for dental issues is a combination of Ibuprofen and Paracetamol, both of which are available over the counter. You may find them under brand names such as Panadol, Nurofen, Act 3 or Nuromol, or under the in-house chemist brand. Ask your pharmacist to recommend the appropriate dosage for your specific symptoms.
Swelling
Swelling of gums and/or face is often caused by infection, so immediate assessment and care is paramount. Any associated pain can be managed as per the above section.
Broken teeth and/or lost fillings
A broken tooth or filling will often leave a sharp fragment which can irritate or cut the tongue or cheek. To help reduce irritation, use an emery board to file back the sharp point into a softer, rounded shape.
Bleeding
Stem bleeding by applying pressure on the area with a clean cloth or piece of gauze for 20 to 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, it is recommended that you go to your nearest hospital emergency department.
PREVENTION IS THE BEST CURE
We hope none of our clients ever end up in the emergency chair. Our strong emphasis on continuing care is aimed at preventing emergency situations from happening in the first place.
For those who do come to us for emergency care, we firstly treat the urgent problem. Then, we endeavour to work with you on a roadmap to optimal dental health.
“In many cases, an emergency situation occurs after a long absence from seeing a Dentist. This may lead to feelings of guilt or embarrassment, but there is no need to feel this way. We are here to help, not to judge.”