What to Do in a Dental Emergency

Dental problems rarely happen at a convenient time. If you have a dental emergency in Canberra, these first steps can help until you can see a dentist.

When to call 000 or go to hospital

If you have severe swelling of the face or neck that affects your breathing or swallowing, a high fever, or uncontrolled bleeding, call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department straight away.

Toothache

Rinse with warm water and gently floss to remove any trapped food. Over-the-counter pain relief may help — follow the directions on the packet and check with a pharmacist if you are unsure. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum. Call us as early as you can so we can find the cause.

A chipped or broken tooth

Keep any pieces of tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and use a cold compress on your cheek to reduce swelling. Avoid chewing on that side until you have been seen.

A knocked-out adult tooth

Time matters. Hold the tooth by the crown (the white part), not the root. If it is clean, gently place it back in the socket and bite on a clean cloth. If you can’t, keep it in milk and see a dentist immediately. Baby teeth should not be put back in.

A lost filling or crown

Keep the crown if you have it and avoid chewing on that tooth. Don’t use household glue. Call us to book an appointment.

Pain relief and comfort while you wait

Until you can be seen, over-the-counter pain relief taken as directed on the label may help. Rinse gently with warm salty water, use a cold compress on the outside of the cheek for swelling, and avoid chewing on the affected side. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum, as it can burn the tissue. If you are unsure which medicines are safe for you, ask a pharmacist.

Preventing dental emergencies

Wear a well-fitted mouthguard for contact and ball sports.
Avoid chewing ice, pens or hard lollies.
Have cracked or broken fillings checked before they fail completely.
Keep up regular check-ups so problems are found early.

Wisdom teeth and swelling

Pain and swelling around a partly erupted wisdom tooth is a common reason for urgent visits. Keeping the area clean and rinsing with warm salty water may help in the short term, but persistent swelling, difficulty opening your mouth or fever should be assessed promptly.

Frequently asked questions

Should I go to hospital for toothache?

Most toothaches are best managed by a dentist. Go to hospital or call 000 if you have facial swelling affecting your eye or breathing, difficulty swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding or a serious injury.

Can a knocked-out baby tooth be put back?

No. Baby teeth should not be replanted, but the child should still be seen by a dentist to check for other injuries.

What should I bring to an emergency appointment?

Bring any broken pieces of tooth or crown, a list of your medications and your health fund card if you have one.

Seeing an emergency dentist in Canberra City

Call Glebe Park Dental on (02) 6295 9460 first thing in the morning. We will try to see you the same day, although we can’t promise a time. Learn more on our emergency dentist page.

This article is general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your dentist. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

What to do in a dental emergency in Canberra