Emergencies

We are often asked what patients should do in the case of emergencies and thought that we could feature some of the more common instances on the website.

picture of a woman in dental pain
  1. I've knocked out a tooth
    First of all, don't clean it! If you can put it back in yourself then do that immediately. If you can't do it yourself then place the tooth in a glass of milk and get to a dentist to re implant it within 30 minutes. If you don't have access to milk then place the tooth in your mouth, either under your tongue or between your cheek and teeth and get to a dentist as soon as possible. The 30 minute window is all important.
  2. I've had a filling placed and it is still painful
    It can often be painful when you have had a filling placed and it is not unusual for it to be slightly sore for a few weeks afterwards. Do take a painkiller but if this doesn't work then do contact us to see if there are any other issues.
  3. I have toothache but haven't had any work carried out recently
    If the pain comes and goes then it is likely to be an inflamed nerve. This can be caused by trauma or decay. Book an appointment as soon as it is convenient. If the pain is constant then it is a sign of a dying nerve or an abscess - this requires more urgent treatment so contact us immediately.
  4. I have had a tooth removed and the socket is still bleeding
    Roll up some tissue or cotton wool tightly into a cocktail sausage shape. Place this over the socket and bite tightly. Leave for 1 hour and do not drink or eat for 3 hours. If the bleeding continues after this then return to your dentist. Remember, your blood mixes with saliva as you bleed so it always looks like you're bleeding more than you actually are, so don't panic!
  5. I had a tooth removed and now it's really painful
    There will always be some pain following an extraction, it is minor surgery after all. However, if your pain is of an increasing nature or present 72hours after the extraction, you may be developing an Infected or Dry Socket. The pain is quite severe and can be worse than the original toothache. You will require an antibiotic and may need the wound cleaned or dressed. Contact us as soon as you can.

If you have any doubts at all then please don't hesitate to contact us on 01 832 5609.