Trusted emergency dentist Bulleen
A dental emergency can be painful, worrying and difficult to manage on your own. Whether you are dealing with a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth or unexpected swelling, getting prompt advice and treatment makes a real difference to your comfort and to the outcome for the affected tooth.
At Smile Style Dental in Bulleen, our experienced team understands how distressing these situations can be. We do our best to see patients in pain as quickly and conveniently as possible, and we will guide you through what to do in the meantime. If you are experiencing a dental emergency, please call us straight away.
When to seek emergency dental care
Some dental problems can wait for a routine appointment, while others need prompt attention. Contact us straight away if you are experiencing persistent or severe tooth pain, significant swelling of the face or gums, bleeding that does not stop, a tooth that has been knocked out or badly broken, or an injury to the mouth or jaw. If you are ever unsure, it is best to call us for advice rather than wait.
The guidance below explains what you can do before you reach us. It is general first-aid information only and does not replace an examination by a dentist. Outcomes vary from person to person, so please seek professional care as soon as you can.
What should I do in a dental emergency?
Below are answers to some of the questions we hear most often about check-ups and cleans in Bulleen. If there is anything else you would like to know before your visit, simply contact our team - we're always happy to help.
Toothache
A persistent toothache is often a sign of a problem with one of your teeth, so you should see a dentist as soon as possible.
- In the meantime, keep your teeth and gums as clean as you can, and rinse your mouth frequently to remove any food debris from the area.
- Pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be taken at the recommended dosage and in accordance with the instructions.
Swelling
Facial or oral swelling is usually caused by an infection and requires immediate treatment. Rinsing with warm salt water can help relieve some of the pressure and discomfort, and pain medication can be taken for short-term relief.
However, it is important that you seek prompt professional advice from one of our experienced dentists in Bulleen, who will be able to provide the appropriate treatment.
Broken tooth
A fractured tooth can be very uncomfortable, and we understand it can feel awkward in social situations. We will make every effort to see you as soon as possible to repair your tooth.
In the meantime, avoid any food or drink that causes discomfort, and rinse your mouth with water to remove any food debris. Pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can be taken in accordance with the recommended dosage.
Fractured teeth can often be restored with a dental filling, though some teeth may require a more permanent restoration such as a crown.
Knocked-out tooth
If the tooth is dirty, rinse the tooth in milk, holding it by the crown (not the root). If milk is not available, use water, rinsing for a few seconds only, or have the patient suck it clean, then place the tooth back in the socket.
Do not scrape the tooth root as the cells on the root are very important to ensure proper reintegration of the tooth.
If the tooth cannot be replaced in the socket, wrap it in cling film or place it in milk or in the patient’s mouth (inside the cheek).
You may contact us for further advice, but be sure to seek immediate treatment, as time is critical for successful replanting, ideally within 30 minutes.
Broken denture
If your denture breaks, please place all the pieces in a clean plastic bag or container with a small amount of water and bring it to our practice for repair.
Do not attempt to repair the denture with any type of superglue as this could jeopardise a successful repair and most adhesives are toxic if swallowed.
Call us as soon as possible to arrange the repair.
Objects wedged between the teeth
If you have something stuck between your teeth, try to remove the object with dental floss, an interdental cleaner such as a TePe or Piksters brush, or a wooden toothpick. Guide the floss or pick carefully between your teeth so as not to damage the gums. If you are unsuccessful, please contact us to book with our Bulleen emergency dentist for appropriate advice and treatment.
Broken jaw
If there is any concern that you may have a broken jaw, you need to be seen by an oral surgeon or doctor at the nearest emergency hospital. Apply ice immediately to the jaw to help control pain or swelling. If possible, try not to move your jaw, and do not eat or drink before being seen by the doctor or oral surgeon.
Emergency dental care for Bulleen and Melbourene eastern suburbs
Smile Style Dental has cared for the Bulleen community for over 20 years, and we welcome emergency patients from across the eastern suburbs, including Doncaster, Templestowe and Balwyn North. Our practice on Thompsons Road has easy on-site parking, which is one less thing to worry about when you are in pain.
We also understand that dental emergencies can feel especially daunting for anxious patients. If nerves are a concern, let our team know when you call, and we will talk you through the sedation options available to help you feel more at ease.
Book an emergency dental appointment
For all emergency appointments, please call us and we will endeavour to see you as soon as possible.