Dental emergencies can be stressful — whether it’s a sudden toothache, a chipped tooth, or a knocked-out tooth after a fall. Knowing what to expect during an emergency dental visit can help you stay calm, act quickly, and feel more in control of the situation.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the typical steps of an emergency dental appointment, so you’ll know exactly what happens when you arrive and how we’re here to help.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away
- Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums
- A broken, chipped, or cracked tooth
- A knocked-out (avulsed) tooth
- Infection or abscess, often with fever or pus
- Lost filling or crown causing discomfort
- Bleeding that won’t stop after dental trauma
If you’re unsure whether it’s an emergency, it’s always best to call your dental clinic. We can advise you on whether you need same-day care or a next-day appointment.
What to Expect During Your Emergency Dental Visit
📞 1. Initial Phone Call or Online Booking
When you contact the clinic, be ready to describe:
- Your symptoms (pain, swelling, bleeding, etc.)
- When the issue started
- If there was any trauma (e.g., a fall, sports injury)
- Any medical conditions or medications you’re taking
The dental team will guide you on what to do next, including any first-aid tips and whether to come in immediately.
📝 2. Emergency Check-In and Patient History
Once you arrive, you’ll fill out or review a medical and dental history form if you haven’t already. Let the dental team know about:
- Any allergies or health conditions
- Medications (including pain relievers you’ve already taken)
- Recent dental procedures
🦷 3. Dental Examination and Diagnosis
Your dentist will assess the problem area by:
- Asking questions about your pain or symptoms
- Performing a visual exam
- Taking X-rays to see what’s happening below the surface
The goal is to identify the cause quickly and determine the best course of treatment to relieve pain and prevent further damage.
💉 4. Pain Relief and Immediate Treatment
If you’re in pain or experiencing swelling, the first priority is comfort and stabilization. Depending on the issue, this might include:
- Local anaesthetic to numb the area
- Draining an abscess
- Temporary or permanent filling
- Tooth extraction (if needed)
- Repositioning and stabilizing a loose or knocked-out tooth
- Prescribing antibiotics or pain medication
If the issue can’t be fully resolved in one visit, your dentist will provide temporary relief and book a follow-up appointment.
📋 5. Aftercare Instructions and Follow-Up
Before you leave, your dental team will explain:
- How to care for the area at home
- What to eat or avoid for the next 24–48 hours
- When to return for further treatment (if needed)
They’ll also discuss costs, insurance coverage, and direct billing options, if available.
How to Prepare for a Dental Emergency
- Save your dentist’s emergency contact number
- Keep a small dental first-aid kit at home (gauze, ice pack, pain relievers)
- Don’t ignore early signs like tooth sensitivity or gum swelling — they may be the start of a bigger issue
🦷 Final Thoughts
Dental emergencies can happen anytime — but with the right care, they don’t have to lead to long-term problems. The key is to act quickly, stay calm, and know that your dental team is trained to handle urgent situations with care and expertise.
Experiencing a dental emergency? Call us right away.
Our clinic offers same-day emergency care with compassionate, expert service to get you out of pain and back to smiling. Contact us now — we’re here when you need us most.