BLOG

Emergency Dental Guide

28 / 10 / 2020

Learn about some of the common dental problems and what might constitute an emergency, alongside some tips to help from home

GET IN TOUCH

Emergency

Emergency Dental Guide

If you’re experiencing a dental issue and are unsure whether it requires urgent attention, we’re here to help. You can call us directly for advice, and if necessary, we’ll schedule you in for a prompt in-person consultation.

Knowing when to seek emergency dental care is important. Some problems require immediate treatment, while others can be managed until your next routine visit. Here’s how to tell the difference:

Urgent Symptoms:

  • Facial swelling extending to the eye or neck
  • Bleeding following an extraction that persists after 20 minutes
  • Bleeding due to trauma that doesn’t stop
  • Severe toothache that has kept you awake at night, accompanied by significant swelling or fever
Night guard

Visit A&E if you experience:

  • Facial swelling affecting vision or breathing
  • Trauma resulting in loss of consciousness, double vision, or vomiting

Non-Urgent Issues:

bleeding gums
  • Loose or lost crownsbridges, or veneers
  • Broken, rubbing, or loose dentures
  • Bleeding gums occasionally
  • Broken, loose, or lost fillings
  • Chipped teeth without pain
  • Loose orthodontic wires not causing trauma

Managing Toothache:

Fillings or cracked teeth causing discomfort can be temporarily filled with products available at supermarkets or pharmacies. However, consult your dentist before attempting this. Desensitizing toothpaste or anaesthetic gels can also help alleviate pain.

Managing Wisdom Tooth Pain:

Most flare-ups can be managed with thorough home care. If you experience difficulty swallowing, swelling in your face or cheek, or trouble opening your mouth, contact your dentist.

Managing Ulcers:

Most ulcers heal within 7-10 days. Ensure excellent oral hygiene and use products like Difflam spray or mouthwash as needed. Denture adhesives may help if dentures cause ulcers.

Read our blog on ulcers for further information, here.

Woman pulling her lip down to reveal an ulcer

Managing Pain or Healing After Extraction:

Take regular painkillers for up to seven days after an extraction. Some oozing is normal, but freely bleeding sockets require immediate attention.

Managing Bleeding Gums:

Lady brushing her teeth

 

 

Improving brushing habits can stop bleeding gums. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth daily.

Managing a Lost Crown:

Consult your dentist for personalized advice. Temporary repair kits are available, but use them cautiously. Your dentist may offer guidance via video link or advise on whether it’s safe to leave the crown off until regular dental care resumes.

While these tips cover many issues, please contact your local practice if you’re unsure about anything. We’re here to help, even over the phone.

Back to Blog

GET IN TOUCH

What do they say about Abbey Mead?

“I've been a coming here for many years, but recently their approach with my 7 year old autistic foster child has been exceptional. After an appointment where he had two small fillings he said...”

Jeremy

“I recently had a new registration appointment for an hour with Dr Richard Aldridge With my somewhat complex dental history I found him to be outstanding in his attentiveness, understanding and professionalism. He coped...”

Steve

“rapid response to an acute dental problem - saw me less than 2 hours after I phoned, and very thorough assessment and treatment.”

Peter

“My husband and I visited to see Nicole, one of the hygienists. She was and is very professional and explained everything. Highly recommended.”

Marilyn

“Great service from Dr Richard Aldridge and the staff . Treated with empathy. From Glenn Williams - saw Richard a few days ago, great treatment, everything explained in detail. Also,the front desk staff give...”

Doreen

“Very friendly, professional and informative staff, who provide possible treatment and cost options where necessary. Cannot fault them in any way.”

Mike

“I haven’t been dentist for over 15 years but when I broke a tooth I had no choice. Really friendly service, made me feel relaxed and comfortable. Surprisingly teeth are good just need broken...”

Karl

instagram instagram

Follow Us on Instagram

This error message is only visible to WordPress admins

Error: No feed with the ID 2 found.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.

Google Rating
4.9
Google Rating