Call first, we will guide you
Emergency Dentistry
Dental emergencies rarely happen at convenient times. Call us as early as you can — even when we cannot see you within the hour, the right first steps protect the tooth.
What counts as a dental emergency
If you are in significant pain, bleeding will not stop, a tooth has been displaced or knocked out, or there is facial swelling, treat it as urgent and phone us.
- Severe or worsening toothache
- Knocked-out or loosened tooth after impact
- Broken or fractured tooth with sharp edges
- Lost crown, filling or temporary restoration
- Swelling of the gum, face or jaw
- Abscess with a bad taste or discharge
What to do before you arrive
For a knocked-out adult tooth, hold it by the crown, not the root, rinse gently with milk or saline, and keep it moist — in milk or in the cheek — on the way to us. Time matters enormously.
For swelling or bleeding, apply cold to the outside of the face and firm gauze pressure to a bleeding socket. Take your usual over-the-counter pain relief unless your doctor has advised against it.
Facial swelling that affects breathing, swallowing or vision is a medical emergency — go to an emergency department.
Preventing the next one
Many emergencies are predictable: an untreated cavity, a cracked cusp that has been aching for months, or contact sport without a mouthguard. Once you are comfortable, we will address the underlying cause.
Common questions
Can you see me today?
We hold time for urgent problems and will fit you in as early as possible. Phone rather than email so we can triage properly.
I have no pain but my filling fell out. Is that urgent?
It should be seen soon. An unprotected tooth can fracture or become sensitive quickly, even when it is painless today.
Related treatments
Talk to us about emergency dentistry
Bring your questions. We will examine, explain what we see, and give you options with costs before anything starts.