Emergency Dentistry

Dental emergencies are painful and usually cannot wait. This is why Strathalbyn Family Dental, we keep same-day emergency appointments available for patients who need urgent care. If you are in pain or have a dental concern, call us first thing, and we will do everything we can to see you that day.

What We Can Help With

We see a wide range of dental emergencies, including:

Toothaches
Broken or chipped teeth
Knocked-out teeth
Lost filling or crown
Facial swellings
Dental abscess
Soft tissue injuries

What to Expect

01

Call us first

If you are experiencing a dental emergency, call our practice as early in the day as possible. We will assess the situation over the phone, give you any immediate guidance, and book you in for the earliest available appointment.

02

Getting you out of pain

When you arrive, our priority is to get you comfortable. We will examine the affected area, take an X-ray if needed, and explain what caused the problem. We will then focus on getting you out of pain while considering and maximising your treatment options going forward.

03

Next steps

Depending on the nature of the emergency, treatment may be completed in the same appointment or staged across a follow-up visit. We will be clear about what is needed and what it will cost before any further treatment is agreed to.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as a dental emergency?

A dental emergency is any situation involving significant pain, swelling, a broken or knocked-out tooth, or a concern that cannot reasonably wait for a routine appointment. If you are unsure whether your situation is urgent, call us and we will help you determine the right course of action.

Do you offer same-day emergency appointments?

Yes. We keep same-day emergency spots available for patients in urgent need. Call us as early in the day as possible, and we will do our best to see you that day.

What should I do if I knock out a tooth?

Pick the tooth up by the crown, not the root. If it is dirty, rinse it gently with milk or saline, not tap water. Try to place it back in the socket if you can, or keep it in milk or between your cheek and gum to keep it moist. Call us immediately. Time is critical when it comes to saving a knocked-out tooth.

What should I do about a severe toothache before my appointment?

Over-the-counter pain relief such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage discomfort until you are seen. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the tooth or gum as this can cause irritation. Call us as soon as you can so we can get you in promptly.

Is facial swelling a dental emergency?

Yes. Swelling around the jaw, cheek, or gum can indicate a dental infection that requires prompt treatment. In some cases, dental infections can spread if left untreated. If you have significant facial swelling, particularly if it is affecting your ability to swallow or breathe, seek emergency care immediately.

My filling or crown has come out. Do I need to come in straight away?

A lost filling or crown is not always immediately painful, but it does leave the tooth vulnerable. You should come in as soon as possible to protect the tooth and prevent sensitivity or further damage. In the meantime, dental wax or a temporary filling material from a pharmacy can provide short-term cover.

How much does an emergency dental appointment cost?

Emergency appointment costs vary depending on what treatment is required. We will give you a clear cost breakdown before any treatment is carried out, so there are no surprises. If you have private health insurance with extras cover, part of the cost may be covered depending on your policy.