Emergency Dental Care
Dental emergencies occur to people at times when you least expect them. Here at Hornsby Family Dental Care, we understand that seeing an emergency dentist as soon as possible is very important at times like these.
Common Dental Emergency Situations
There are a variety of reasons why you may need emergency dental treatment:
- chipped front tooth
- lost filling
- loose tooth giving pain
- broken filling
- gum disease
- A hole or a severe abscess caused by a loose tooth
We are open weekdays and Saturdays.
The most essential thing to remember in an emergency is to call your dentist at Hornsby Family Dental Care as soon as possible on (02) 9477 1212, and we will do everything we can to see you the same day.
What should I do in a dental emergency?
Knocked-out tooth
Pick the tooth up by the crown, not the root. Rinse gently with milk or saline, do not scrub. Try to place it back in the socket, or keep it in milk or between your cheek and gum. Call (02) 9477 1212 immediately, the sooner it is treated, the better the chance of saving it.
Severe toothache
Rinse with warm water and gently floss around the tooth to remove any trapped food. Do not place aspirin directly on the gum. Take over-the-counter pain relief if needed and call us right away.
Broken or chipped tooth
Save any broken pieces. Rinse with warm water and apply gentle pressure if there is bleeding. Cover sharp edges with dental wax (available from most pharmacies). Call us to arrange an urgent appointment.
Lost filling or crown
This should be seen promptly to prevent further damage or sensitivity. Dental wax or sugar-free chewing gum can temporarily cover the exposed area. Avoid chewing on that side until treated.
For general dental health advice, visit healthdirect.gov.au.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if your tooth is infected?
An infected tooth can cause severe discomfort and health issues if not treated promptly. Symptoms of a tooth infection include severe pain, noticeable swelling, a bad taste in your mouth, and sometimes a fever. It’s important to see a dentist as soon as you notice any of these symptoms to prevent further complications.
Why is my tooth aching at night?
Toothaches can become more pronounced at night due to the increased blood flow to your head when lying down. This increased circulation can put extra pressure on an inflamed area, intensifying the pain. If you experience this symptom, it’s important to consult with a dentist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.To find out more, please get in touch with our experienced dental practitioners on (02) 9477-1212. Common emergency treatments include tooth-coloured fillings for cracked or broken teeth, and non-surgical root canal treatment to relieve pain caused by infected or inflamed tooth pulp.
How can I prevent dental emergencies?
Preventing dental emergencies involves maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, and scheduling regular dental check-ups. Using a mouthguard during sports can protect your teeth from injury, and avoiding chewing hard foods can reduce the risk of tooth damage. Following these preventive measures can help ensure your dental health and reduce the likelihood of emergencies.