1. Severe Toothache
A toothache is one of the most common reasons patients contact an emergency dentist. Causes may include deep decay, an abscess, a cracked tooth, or an impacted wisdom tooth.
What to do immediately:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Use dental floss to gently remove any food stuck between teeth.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed (avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gum).
- Apply a cold compress outside the cheek to ease swelling.
When to see us:
Persistent or severe toothache is usually a sign of infection or structural damage. Our Brisbane dentists can identify the cause and provide relief through treatments such as fillings, antibiotics, or root canal therapy.
2. Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth (dental avulsion) is a true emergency. Acting quickly can sometimes save the tooth.
What to do immediately:
- Hold the tooth by the crown (top part), not the root.
- If dirty, rinse gently in milk or saline solution.
- Do not scrub or use soap.
- Try to place the tooth back in its socket, biting gently on gauze to hold it in place.
- If this is not possible, store the tooth in milk, saline, or your cheek (if safe).
When to see us:
Contact Brisbane Emergency Dentist straight away. The sooner you arrive, ideally within an hour, the greater the chance of saving the tooth.
3. Broken or Chipped Tooth
Accidents, hard foods, or sports injuries can chip or fracture teeth. Sharp edges may cut your tongue or gums, and deeper cracks may expose nerves, causing pain.
What to do immediately:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Save any fragments and bring them with you.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
When to see us:
We can restore the tooth using bonding, veneers, or crowns. Prompt treatment prevents infection and protects your smile.
4. Lost or Broken Filling or Crown
Fillings and crowns can come loose due to wear, decay beneath the restoration, or trauma. Exposed teeth can feel sensitive and painful.
What to do immediately:
- Keep the filling or crown if possible and bring it to your appointment.
- Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
- Use dental wax or temporary filling material (available at chemists) to cover the exposed area.
When to see us:
Our emergency dentists can replace or repair fillings and crowns quickly, restoring comfort and preventing further damage.
5. Dental Abscess and Infections
An abscess is a pocket of pus caused by infection. Signs include throbbing pain, swelling, fever, or a bad taste in the mouth. Left untreated, infection can spread to the jaw and even other parts of the body.
What to do immediately:
- Rinse with warm salt water to help draw out pus.
- Take pain relief if needed.
- Do not attempt to burst the abscess.
When to see us:
This is a serious condition. Call us straight away. Treatment may involve draining the abscess, prescribing antibiotics, or performing root canal treatment.
6. Soft Tissue Injuries
Biting the tongue, cuts to the lip, or injuries from accidents can cause heavy bleeding and pain.
What to do immediately:
- Rinse gently with warm salt water.
- Apply pressure using a clean cloth or gauze.
- Use a cold compress to control swelling.
When to see us:
If bleeding continues after 15 minutes of pressure, seek emergency dental or hospital care.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Delaying treatment in a dental emergency can lead to:
- Increased pain and discomfort.
- Infection spreading to other parts of the body.
- Permanent tooth loss when a tooth could have been saved.
- Higher costs for more complex treatments later.
Getting help quickly not only relieves pain but often saves your natural teeth.
