Dental Emergencies: What to Do and When to Rush In
Knocked-out tooth, broken tooth, severe pain or swelling: quick, correct action can save a tooth. Here is a calm step-by-step guide.
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The short answer
A dental emergency such as severe toothache, facial swelling, a broken tooth or a knocked-out tooth needs prompt attention. Acting quickly can relieve pain, prevent infection from spreading and, in the case of knocked-out teeth, give the best chance of saving the tooth. Call the clinic first so we can guide you and prepare for your arrival.
- What it is
- Urgent assessment and treatment to relieve pain and prevent complications
- Call right away for
- Severe pain, swelling, bleeding, injury or a knocked-out tooth
- What to do
- Call the clinic and describe what has happened
When should you consider emergency dental care?
- Severe or throbbing toothache
- Swelling of the face, jaw or gum
- A knocked-out, loose or broken tooth
- Bleeding that does not stop
- A lost filling or crown with pain
- Fever with dental pain or swelling
If you recognise any of these, a short examination is the best way to find out what is happening and what, if anything, you need.
What happens, step by step
- 1
Call us
Tell us what happened and your symptoms so we can advise immediate first aid and the quickest visit time.
- 2
Assessment
The dentist examines you, takes X-rays if needed and identifies the cause of the problem.
- 3
Relief
Treatment focuses first on stopping pain and controlling infection or bleeding.
- 4
Follow-up plan
Any further treatment, such as a root canal or crown, is planned for the right time.
Benefits
- Quick relief from severe dental pain
- Prevents infections from spreading
- Better chance of saving injured teeth
- Clear guidance during a stressful time
Aftercare and tips
- Follow any medicines and care instructions exactly
- Return for follow-up treatment as planned
- Do not ignore swelling that spreads, fever, or difficulty breathing or swallowing; seek urgent medical help
- Wear a mouthguard for sports to help prevent future injuries
Emergency Dental Care: frequently asked questions
What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?
Hold it by the crown, not the root. If clean, gently replace it in the socket; otherwise keep it in milk or saliva (not water) and see a dentist within an hour if possible. Call the clinic on your way.
What can I do for severe toothache at home?
Rinse your mouth with lukewarm water, floss gently to remove trapped food and take a pain reliever as per the label. Do not put aspirin directly on the gum. Then see a dentist, because pain usually signals a problem that needs treatment.
When is facial swelling an emergency?
Swelling that spreads, comes with fever, or makes it hard to breathe, swallow or open your mouth needs urgent attention. Seek immediate medical or dental help.
How do I reach the clinic in an emergency?
Call the clinic number shown on this page. Describe the problem and we will advise the fastest way to be seen.
This page is general information, not personal medical advice. Whether this treatment is right for you is decided after a clinical examination by your dentist.
