Dental emergencies always seem to strike at the worst time. Knowing what to do in the first few minutes can ease the pain — and sometimes even save a tooth. Here’s a quick guide, plus when to pick up the phone.
Toothache
Rinse with warm water and gently floss to remove any trapped food. A cold compress on the outside of your cheek can help with swelling. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum. If pain persists or worsens, give us a call.
Knocked-out tooth
Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root. If you can, gently rinse it and place it back in the socket; otherwise keep it in a container of milk. Time matters here — see a dentist as soon as possible, ideally within the hour.
Chipped or broken tooth
Save any pieces, rinse your mouth with warm water, and use a cold compress for swelling. Avoid chewing on that side until we’ve had a look.
Lost filling or crown
Keep the crown if you still have it. Avoid chewing on that tooth and book in promptly so we can protect it before further damage occurs.
When to seek urgent help
- Severe, uncontrolled pain
- Facial swelling or a fever alongside a toothache
- Bleeding that won’t stop
- A knocked-out adult tooth
If you have significant facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or an injury from an accident, treat it as a medical emergency and call 000.
In pain? Don’t wait it out
If something doesn’t feel right, call Harlow Dental in Surry Hills on (02) 9331 4408 and we’ll help you as quickly as we can.
