If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call Creative Smiles on 1300 762 770 as soon as possible.
Our team understands that dental emergencies can be painful and stressful, which is why we make every effort to provide prompt care and attention to those in need. Whether you have a broken tooth, severe toothache, or any other dental emergency, we will do our best to see you on the same day.
Dental Emergency Types
Severe Toothache
A sharp and intense discomfort in or around one or multiple teeth is known as a severe toothache. It can be caused by a variety of dental issues and may be constant, intermittent, or triggered by specific foods, drinks, or temperature changes.
It is crucial to seek immediate dental care if you experience a severe toothache as it could indicate a significant underlying dental problem that requires urgent attention. In the meantime, you may rinse your mouth with warm salt water, use over-the-counter pain relievers, and steer clear of hot, cold, or sugary foods and beverages to alleviate the pain.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
When a tooth has suffered partial or complete fracture or damage due to an injury, trauma, or biting on a hard object, it is known as a broken or chipped tooth. The severity of the damage can cause pain or sensitivity and may also impact the tooth’s appearance and function.
To avoid additional damage or infection, it is essential to see your dentist promptly if you have a broken or chipped tooth.
Knocked-Out Tooth
A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency that requires immediate attention. When a tooth is knocked out, it is important to act quickly to increase the chances of saving the tooth. Emergency dental care for a knocked-out tooth includes the following steps:
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Retrieve the tooth: Locate the tooth and pick it up by the crown (the part that is normally visible in the mouth). Avoid touching the root of the tooth as this can damage the delicate tissues that are necessary for re-implantation.
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Rinse the tooth: Gently rinse the tooth with water or milk to remove any dirt or debris. Do not use soap or chemicals, and do not scrub the tooth.
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Attempt to re-implant the tooth: If possible, re-implant the tooth back into its socket. Gently push the tooth into place with your fingers, being careful not to damage the root.
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Keep the tooth moist: If you are unable to re-implant the tooth, keep it moist by placing it in a container of milk, saliva, or a specialized tooth preservation solution. Do not let the tooth dry out.
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Seek immediate dental care: Contact an emergency dentist as soon as possible. The dentist may be able to save the tooth if you act quickly.
Remember, time is of the essence when it comes to a knocked-out tooth. Seek emergency dental care right away for the best chance of saving the tooth.
Loose or Missing Teeth
A loose or missing filling or crown can cause discomfort, sensitivity, and leave the tooth vulnerable to further damage or decay. It is critical to seek the advice of your dentist right away if you have a loose or missing filling or crown to prevent additional harm to the tooth and to restore its function and appearance.
Gum or Teeth Infection
Gingivitis, commonly referred to as a gum infection, results from the accumulation of plaque on the teeth, leading to inflammation of the gums. Indications of gingivitis comprise of swollen, red, and bleeding gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, which is a severe form of gum disease and may result in tooth loss.
On the other hand, a tooth infection refers to a bacterial infection affecting the tooth’s pulp or nerve, resulting in tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling of the gums or face, and fever.
If you experience symptoms of a gum or tooth infection, it is crucial to seek immediate dental care from a dentist to receive accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment
Swollen Jaw or Face
Abnormal enlargement of the jaw or face, known as a swollen jaw or face, can be attributed to the accumulation of fluid, inflammation, or other underlying conditions.
Several factors can cause swelling of the jaw or face, including tooth or gum infections, sinus infections, trauma or injury, salivary gland disorders, cysts or tumors, and allergic reactions. Additionally, it may indicate more severe medical conditions such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, or infections.
The swelling may be accompanied by symptoms like pain, tenderness, redness, warmth, difficulty chewing or speaking, fever, and breathing difficulties.
If you experience swelling of the jaw or face, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.
If you experience a dental emergency outside of our regular business hours, please leave a message on our answering machine and follow the instructions provided. Our dentist on call will return your call as soon as possible to provide advice or arrange for emergency treatment.
Please note that if you are experiencing severe bleeding or a life-threatening emergency, you should call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department immediately.
A dental emergency is a situation that requires immediate dental attention to relieve severe pain, stop bleeding, or save a tooth. Examples of dental emergencies include severe toothache, broken tooth, knocked-out tooth, abscessed tooth, jaw pain, and swelling.
A: If you have a dental emergency, contact Creative Smiles Dental Care immediately. Our emergency dental team will do everything possible to accommodate you as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers, apply a cold compress to the affected area, and avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
A: While emergency rooms are equipped to handle life-threatening situations, they are not always equipped to handle dental emergencies. It is best to contact Creative Smiles Dental Care for your dental emergency as we have the necessary equipment, tools, and expertise to handle your situation.
A: The cost of emergency dental care can vary depending on the type of treatment you need. We will provide you with an estimate of the cost before any treatment is performed. Our team will work with you to find affordable payment options that fit your budget.
A: We accept various forms of payment, including cash, credit/debit cards, and dental insurance.
A: If you have a dental emergency while traveling, try to find a local dentist as soon as possible. You can also contact Creative Smiles Dental Care for advice on what to do next. It is important to have your dental records with you when traveling to help expedite treatment.
A: We understand that not everyone has dental insurance. That’s why we offer various payment options, including financing through CareCredit, to help make dental care affordable for all our patients. Contact us to discuss the best payment options for your situation.
A: While some dental emergencies are unavoidable, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. These include practicing good oral hygiene, wearing a mouthguard during sports, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups.
A: If you have a non-urgent dental problem, such as a chipped tooth or a loose filling, but can’t get an appointment for several days, try to keep the affected area clean and avoid eating or drinking hot or cold substances. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. If the pain becomes severe or you develop a fever, contact us immediately.
A: Yes, you can bring someone with you to your emergency dental appointment. We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, and having someone you trust with you can help ease your anxiety. However, please note that due to limited space in our treatment rooms, we may ask your companion to wait in our reception area during the procedure.
