Question 1

What counts as a dental emergency?

Accepted Answer

A dental emergency is any situation where you are in significant discomfort, there is risk of the problem getting worse without prompt attention, or there has been a physical injury to a tooth or the jaw. Severe toothache, a knocked-out tooth, an abscess, or a broken tooth that has exposed the nerve would all qualify. If you are in doubt, call us on 02 9446 5500 and we can advise you over the phone.

Question 2

What should I do if a tooth is knocked out?

Accepted Answer

Pick the tooth up by the crown (the flat, chewing surface), not the root. Rinse it gently with water if it is dirty do not scrub it. If you can, place it back in the socket and bite down gently to hold it in place. If that is not possible, keep it moist: in a small container of milk, or in your cheek between the gum and lip. Call us on 02 9446 5500 immediately. The sooner a knocked-out tooth is treated, the better the outlook time matters with this type of injury.

Question 3

Can I come in without an appointment for a dental emergency?

Accepted Answer

We recommend calling ahead so we can prepare for your arrival and give you an accurate wait time. Walking in unannounced may mean a wait. A quick call on 02 9446 5500 which takes 30 seconds and means we can often see you faster.

Question 4

What should I do for a severe toothache at night?

Accepted Answer

Call us on 02 9446 5500 during business hours as soon as the practice opens. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relief can help manage discomfort following the dosage instructions on the packaging. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum. If your face is swelling, go to your nearest hospital emergency department, as swelling in the jaw can indicate an abscess that may need urgent medical attention.

Question 5

How quickly can you see me?

Accepted Answer

For genuine dental emergencies, we do our best to see patients the same day. This depends on our appointment schedule at the time you call. If we cannot see you immediately, we will advise you on managing the situation until we can fit you in, and let you know when the earliest available time is.

Question 6

Will I need X-rays for an emergency appointment?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. An X-ray helps us see what is happening below the gum line particularly for toothache, abscesses, and injuries involving the root. We have X-ray facilities on site. The cost of any X-rays will be discussed with you before we proceed.

Emergency dentistry in Westleigh

What counts as a dental emergency

What to expect

Frequently asked questions