Dental emergency? Here’s what to do

A dental emergency often occurs when you least expect it. Whether it’s a sudden onset of tooth pain, a child knocking out a tooth at sport, or a lost filling, dental emergencies have a way of taking us by surprise.

When these situations arise, seeking urgent dental care becomes a priority. With our same-day emergency appointments, you can count on Hampton Beach Dentists to be there for you and your loved ones during those unexpected dental emergencies.

What’s considered a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any sudden or unexpected oral health issue that demands immediate attention to relieve pain, prevent complications, or safeguard your teeth.

Some of the most common dental emergencies we deal with include:

1. Broken or chipped tooth

A chipped or fractured tooth can result in a fair bit of discomfort, particularly when the nerves are exposed or if there are sharp edges from the break.

To address this, start by rinsing your mouth gently with warm water. If you notice any swelling, applying a soothing ice pack or cold compress to your face can provide some relief. It’s advisable to visit our practice promptly, where we’ll make every effort to swiftly restore your smile.

2. A lost tooth

When you or your child gets a tooth knocked out, receiving prompt dental attention is of utmost importance.

If you find yourself in a situation where a tooth has been lost, take care to handle it delicately, holding it by the crown rather than the root. It is advisable to refrain from vigorously scrubbing or trying to remove any attached tissue fragments.

If the tooth is dirty, gently rinse the tooth in milk or saliva, avoiding the use of water. The tooth should also be kept moist at all times – if possible, place it back in its socket or between the cheek and gums. Alternatively, you can store it in cold milk but never water.

We strongly recommend that you visit our practice as soon as possible to maximise the chances of saving your tooth.

3. Toothache

If you have a persistent toothache, start by rinsing your mouth with warm water and applying a cold compress to your cheek to alleviate any swelling. For non-prescription pain relief options, consult with your pharmacist for appropriate options.

If the pain continues, it could be a sign of an underlying infection, so prompt dental care is advisable. It’s important not to ignore a toothache and hope that it will go away, as it can lead to potential complications and worsening pain.

4. Abscess or infection

An abscess is essentially a concentrated infection that develops either at the root of a tooth or in the gap between your teeth and gums. When not addressed quickly, an abscess or infection could lead to harm in neighbouring tissues and teeth. In extreme instances, it may even spread further, posing a potential risk to your life, so it is important that you see us as soon as possible.

5. Lost crown or filling

When a filling or crown becomes dislodged, it leaves your tooth exposed and vulnerable, making it extra sensitive to hot and cold foods.

To address this issue promptly, we recommend calling our practice without delay to schedule the replacement of your crown or filling.

When to head to hospital instead 

While we are equipped to assist with the most common dental emergency cases, certain situations require immediate medical attention.

If you are encountering severe swelling in your face, jaw, or throat or find it challenging to open your mouth due to the swelling, it is imperative that you promptly seek care at your nearest hospital. These symptoms may signify a serious condition that requires a visit to hospital instead.

Emergency dental care at Hampton Beach Dentists

We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful. Rest assured, our experienced team is well-prepared to handle various dental emergency scenarios, so please do not hesitate to contact us. If you ever have a dental emergency, please call the Hampton Beach Dentists team on 03 9598 5666, and we will do our best to see you as soon as possible.

*This information is general and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. For personalised dental advice, consult with Hampton Beach Dentists.