What To Do In A Dental Emergency?
Make fast decisions to quell pain and prevent further damage
With lots of medical emergencies, we tend to know what to do. We either book in to see our GP if we think the issue can wait, or we go to A&E if we need to see someone quickly. If it is a life or death emergency, then obviously you call 999 and get an ambulance as quickly as you can.
When it comes to dental emergencies however, a lot of people aren’t sure about what to do and so, sometimes the wrong approach can occur. This means a person may be in pain, or may miss out on vital dental care quickly, when the correct action will mean quick and efficient pain relief and treatment where it is needed.
Here’s what to do in a dental emergency:
When The Problem Can Wait
If you have some pain or soreness that has come on that you can easily manage at home with over the counter painkillers and rest, then wait to book in with Abbey Road Dental at your next available opportunity. You can call us on 02076241603 any time during the hours listed on our contact us page. We will then take some details and book you in for a time that suits your needs.
When The Problem Can’t Wait But It Is Not A Medical Emergency
It may be that you are in moderate pain, your gums are swollen or you are experiencing symptoms that suggest infection. If this is the case, you should use if we are open. If we are not open, call NHS 111 for advice on what to do next. They will assess your situation and if you need an emergency appointment with an out of hours emergency dentist they will help organise that for you. If they deem your symptoms to be an emergency, they will act accordingly on that and offer the appropriate advice.
When The Problem Is A True Emergency
If you have sudden unbearable pain in your teeth or gums, perhaps resulting from an accident, then you need immediate dental assistance and you should look to visiting your nearest accident and emergency clinic. If you are unsure, NHS 111 will help you but you should not delay help if you are in agony. If the problem has occurred due to an accident, collect any teeth that have come out and try to preserve them in milk. It is best you have the injury checked as soon as possible as the treatments on offer may be time-relative.
If In Doubt, Seek Help
As with any emergency, the best thing you can do is seek help if you are unsure of the kind of medical assistance that is needed. An injury you may feel can wait, may actually require quick thinking and treatment at Abbey Road Dental in order to prevent further damage. If you can contact us for advice, and the issue is not so urgent that you require accident and emergency, then please call us on 02076241603 and we can advise you on what to do next. If it is outside of our usual opening hours, then call NHS 111 or 999 if it is a genuine emergency.