Dental Emergencies

Some emergencies are urgent.

If the patient has:

• bleeding that is not stopping, and/or
• swelling that is increasing and may prevent breathing

 immediate professional help is necessary.

• The NHS emergency helpline is available 24/7 for advice or help. If you’re in England call 111.
• If you need urgent dental help, call your local SpaDental practice, and even out-of-hours the answer machine will offer advice.

A knocked out tooth is a common emergency.

While a chipped tooth is not urgent, a tooth that is knocked out needs urgent attention.

• Apply pressure to the tooth site to control bleeding.
• Use a cold compress to control swelling.
• Put the tooth in a container covered with a little cow’s milk or saliva.
• Only touch the crown of the tooth, not the root.
• An adult may be able to store the tooth between the gum and lip.
• See a dentist as soon as possible, as the tooth can sometimes be replanted.
• Call us on 01948 664149

Advice for pain management:

• Ask a pharmacist for advice on pain medication.
• Check any medication you have been prescribed, and follow the recommended dosage.
• Take care if you take non-prescription painkillers.
  • Follow the instructions for use.
  • Ask a healthcare professional about compatibility with other medications.
  • Remember:
    • A painkiller only disguises the problem.
    • Do not rely on them, and
    • Do not avoid treatment.
• Rinse the mouth with salty water.
• Avoid things that are very hot, cold, sweet or spicy.
• Eat soft foods to avoid pressure.
• Try some gum numbing gel (if there’s a chemist open).