What to Do If You Have a Dental Emergency in Southampton
A dental emergency can happen when you least expect it. Whether you wake up with severe toothache, break a tooth while eating or experience sudden swelling, knowing what to do can help you get the right care as quickly as possible.
At Bedford Place Dentist in Southampton, we reserve time each day for dental emergencies and aim to provide same-day or next-day appointments where availability allows.
What is a dental emergency?
A dental emergency is generally a dental problem that requires prompt assessment to relieve pain, prevent the problem from getting worse or protect your oral health.
Common dental emergencies include:
Severe or persistent toothache
A broken or chipped tooth
A knocked-out tooth
A loose or damaged filling
A lost crown or bridge
Swelling around the tooth or gums
Dental trauma or an injury to the mouth
Significant sensitivity or pain when biting
If you are unsure whether your problem is an emergency, it is always best to contact a dental practice for advice.
What should you do if you have severe toothache?
Toothache can have several causes, including decay, infection, a damaged tooth or problems affecting the gums.
While waiting to be assessed:
Keep the area clean by gently brushing your teeth.
Avoid very hot, cold or sugary foods if they make the pain worse.
Try to avoid chewing on the affected side.
If appropriate for you, consider taking an over-the-counter painkiller according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Contact your dentist as soon as possible.
Pain relief may make you feel better temporarily, but it does not treat the underlying cause.
What if you have broken a tooth?
If you have broken or chipped a tooth, try to keep any pieces you can find and contact your dentist.
Avoid biting hard foods with the affected tooth. If the break has exposed the inside of the tooth, you may experience sensitivity or pain and should arrange an assessment promptly.
Your dentist will examine the tooth and explain the available treatment options.
What if a tooth has been knocked out?
A knocked-out permanent tooth requires urgent dental attention.
If possible, avoid touching the root of the tooth. Handle it by the crown and, if it is dirty, gently rinse it without scrubbing. Contact a dentist immediately for advice.
The sooner a knocked-out tooth is assessed, the better the chances of appropriate treatment.
When should you seek urgent medical help?
Some symptoms require more than a routine dental appointment.
If you have significant facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, uncontrolled bleeding, or a serious injury, seek urgent medical attention.
Emergency dental appointments in Southampton
At Bedford Place Dentist, we understand that dental emergencies can be stressful. We prioritise patients experiencing dental problems and reserve appointment availability for emergencies where possible.
We are located at 56 Bedford Place in Southampton city centre and provide private dental care for new and existing patients.
If you are experiencing dental pain or think you may have a dental emergency, contact Bedford Place Dentist as soon as possible.
Call 023 8033 3383 to speak to our team.
