When dental emergencies strike, they often do so without warning—and the pain, stress, and uncertainty can be overwhelming. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or a cracked crown, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can make all the difference in saving your smile and minimising long-term damage.
At East Adelaide Dental Studio, we’ve been helping Glenside, Fullarton, Burnside, and Adelaide Surrounds residents handle dental crises for over four decades.
Here’s your guide to the first steps you should take during a dental emergency.
Recognising a Dental Emergency
Not every dental issue is an emergency. However, if you’re experiencing any of the following, immediate attention is required:
- Severe or persistent toothache
- Knocked-out or loose adult tooth
- Chipped, cracked, or broken tooth with pain or sharp edges
- Facial swelling or infection
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop after 10 minutes
- Injury to the mouth, lips, or gums
If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, it’s better to be cautious. Seeking the opinion of an emergency dentist could prevent a minor issue from becoming a major problem.
Stay Calm and Act Quickly
Remaining calm is crucial. Panic can cloud your judgment and delay important steps that could save a tooth or reduce pain. Take a deep breath and follow a systematic approach to manage the situation until you can reach an emergency dentist near me.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Start by examining the affected area:
- Check for visible damage to teeth or gums.
- Determine if a tooth is loose or fully dislodged.
- Look for signs of swelling, bleeding, or pus, which can indicate infection.
Take a mental note of the pain level, whether the pain is constant or throbbing, and if it worsens when chewing or drinking. These details will help your emergency dentist make an informed diagnosis.
Step 2: Control Bleeding and Swelling
If there is bleeding:
- Apply clean gauze to the area and bite down gently.
- Maintain pressure for about 10–15 minutes.
- Replace with fresh gauze if bleeding persists.
To reduce swelling or bruising, apply a cold compress to the outside of your mouth near the affected area. Use it in 15-minute intervals (on and off).
Step 3: Preserve the Tooth (If Applicable)
If your tooth has been knocked out:
- Hold it by the crown (the top), not the root.
- Gently rinse it with milk or saline—avoid scrubbing or using tap water.
- Try to place the tooth back into its socket if you can, and bite down gently on gauze to keep it in place.
- If that’s not possible, keep the tooth in a container of milk or your own saliva until you can reach the dentist.
Time is critical—ideally, you should see an emergency dentist within 30 to 60 minutes of the injury.
Step 4: Avoid DIY Fixes
Tempted to glue a crown back or file a jagged edge? Don’t. DIY fixes often make the problem worse and can cause infection or more damage. Use dental wax (available at most pharmacies) to cover sharp edges and prevent injury to your cheeks or tongue.
In the case of a lost filling or crown, keep the area clean, avoid chewing on that side, and seek help from an emergency dentist near me as soon as possible.
Step 5: Contact East Adelaide Dental Studio Immediately
When you’re in pain or unsure what to do next, your best move is to call a trusted dental team. At East Adelaide Dental Studio, we’re equipped to handle a wide range of dental emergencies in a calming, compassionate environment. Dentist Dr Arthur Shizas and our experienced team are here to restore your oral health swiftly and effectively.
Our serene facility just off Greenhill Road offers a tranquil setting that helps ease anxiety during high-stress situations. We provide same-day emergency care for patients across Glenside, Fullarton, Burnside, and Adelaide surrounds.
Why Choose Our Studio in a Dental Emergency?
- Prompt Appointments: We prioritise emergency patients.
- Experienced Team: With over 40 years of service, we’ve seen it all.
- Comfortable Environment: Designed to reduce stress and help you feel at ease.
- Comprehensive Care: From tooth pain to trauma, we offer solutions tailored to your needs.
Prevention Is the Best Medicine
While not all dental emergencies are preventable, you can reduce your risk with regular dental checkups, wearing a mouthguard during contact sports, and avoiding using teeth to open packages or bottles. Stay proactive about your oral health and address minor issues before they escalate.
If you’re in pain or facing a dental issue that can’t wait, don’t search endlessly for an emergency dentist near me. Trust the team at East Adelaide Dental Studio to deliver prompt, expert care when you need it most. Call us today and take the first step toward relief!
Read more: The Most Common Dental Emergencies and How to Handle Them