Dental pain or damage can happen suddenly and without warning. But how do you know when it’s serious enough to contact an emergency dentist? Acting quickly in the right situation can save a tooth, prevent infection, and reduce long-term damage.
This guide explains which dental issues require urgent care, how to respond, and when it’s time to make that important call.
When Should You Call an Emergency Dentist Glenroy?
Knowing the signs of a dental emergency can help you avoid delays and reduce the risk of complications. If you’re unsure whether it’s urgent, it’s always better to get professional advice than wait.
Call immediately if you experience:
- A knocked-out or loose adult tooth
- Uncontrolled bleeding from the mouth or gums
- Severe, constant tooth pain
- Swelling in the face or gums
- Cracked, broken, or chipped teeth with sharp edges
- Abscess or signs of infection (swelling, pus, fever)
A trusted emergency dentist Glenroy can assess and treat these problems quickly, often with same-day care.
What Doesn’t Require Immediate Dental Care?
Some issues may be uncomfortable but can usually wait a day or two for a regular appointment.
You may be able to wait if:
- A filling or crown has fallen out without pain
- A mild toothache comes and goes
- You have slight gum irritation or bleeding while brushing
- A tooth is chipped but not painful
In any case, it’s still best to contact your dentist to get advice and book a follow-up.
What to Do Before You Reach the Dentist
Taking quick action can help manage pain and protect your teeth until you see a professional.
First-aid steps for dental emergencies:
- Tooth knocked out: Hold by the crown, rinse gently, and try to place it back in the socket. Store in milk if needed.
- Toothache or abscess: Rinse with warm salt water and use a cold compress. Avoid aspirin.
- Broken or chipped tooth: Save any pieces and avoid biting down on the area.
- Bleeding: Apply pressure with a clean cloth or gauze and avoid rinsing too much.
If symptoms get worse, search for an emergency dentist near me and seek help straight away.
Where to Find Help Quickly
Many clinics offer same-day or after-hours appointments for urgent dental problems. Use local maps or search online for “emergency dentist near me” to find a nearby provider. Check their opening hours and whether they accept walk-ins or emergency calls.
Be ready to describe your symptoms clearly to help the dentist prioritise your case.
Know When to Call and Act Quickly
Not all dental issues are emergencies but when they are, timing matters. If you’re in pain, bleeding, or facing a potential infection, call your local emergency dentist Glenroy for expert care. Immediate action can save your smile and stop problems from getting worse.
FAQs
- Can a dental infection be life-threatening?
Yes. If left untreated, an infection can spread to other parts of the body. Seek care if you notice swelling, fever, or pus.
- Is it OK to visit A&E for dental emergencies?
Hospitals can help with pain and swelling, but most dental problems need a dentist. Only go to A&E for trauma, severe bleeding, or swelling affecting breathing.
- Can a lost filling wait until Monday?
If there’s no pain or sensitivity, it may wait. Use dental wax or sugar-free gum to cover the area temporarily and avoid chewing on it.