Okay, you’re dealing with a dental emergency and you need help NOW. We’ve got you.
Call (03) 8899 6937 right now. Warragul Dental Care offers same-day emergency appointments and we’ll get you in as quickly as possible. While you’re waiting to be seen, there are some things you can do to manage the situation (more on that in a sec).
Dental emergencies are stressful and often really painful. Our team has handled thousands of urgent cases over our 40+ years in the community. Dr Anand and our dentists are experienced in emergency care, from treating infections to saving knocked-out teeth. We’ll get you out of pain and address the problem properly.
Know the Warning Signs
Some dental issues need immediate attention. Others can wait for a regular appointment. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Definitely urgent:
- Severe, throbbing tooth pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter painkillers
- A knocked-out adult tooth (time is super critical here!)
- Facial swelling, especially if it’s spreading
- Broken, cracked, or chipped teeth with significant pain or sharp edges
Go straight to hospital if: Swelling is impacting your airway or ability to swallow. That’s a medical emergency, not just dental.
Can probably wait a day or two: Minor chips, small sensitivity, that filling that’s been wobbly for a while. Still call us, but no need to panic.
What to Do Before You Get Here
For knocked-out teeth (eep!): Handle the tooth by the crown (the white part), not the root. Gently rinse it with milk or saliva if it’s dirty, but don’t scrub it. If you can, try placing it back in the socket. If that’s not possible, store it in milk or hold it inside your cheek. Sounds gross, I know, but it keeps the tooth alive! Time is critical, so try to get to us within 30 minutes.
For severe pain: Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen can help take the edge off while you wait. Avoid putting aspirin directly on gums (it can cause burns). A cold compress on your cheek can help with swelling and discomfort.
For broken teeth: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area. If there are sharp edges, dental wax or even sugar-free gum can cover them temporarily to protect your tongue and cheeks.
For bleeding that won’t stop: Apply pressure with clean gauze or a damp tea bag for 15-20 minutes. If bleeding continues heavily after this, you may need medical attention.
When You Arrive
We prioritise emergency patients, but it helps us to know a few things when you call. Tell our reception team:
- What happened
- When it happened
- Your pain level (scale of 1-10 is helpful)
- Whether there’s any swelling
Once you’re in the chair, we’ll assess everything thoroughly. This might include X-rays to see what’s happening below the surface. We’ll explain what we find in plain English and discuss your treatment options.
For most emergencies, we can provide relief the same day. This might mean draining an abscess, extracting a tooth that can’t be saved, starting root canal therapy, or repairing damage. Some situations need staged treatment, but we’ll always address the immediate pain and any infection first.
Comfort During Emergency Treatment
We know you’re already stressed when you come to us with an emergency. Our job is to make the experience as comfortable as possible, not add to your anxiety.
Happy gas (nitrous oxide) is available for adults who need help relaxing during treatment. Our therapy dog Dogtor Bruce can sit with you if you’d find that comforting (most people do!). For complex emergencies or severe dental anxiety, we have in-house general anaesthesia facilities.
Even in urgent situations, we take time to explain what’s happening and make sure you’re okay. You won’t feel rushed or dismissed.
After-Hours Emergencies
Our practice is open Monday to Thursday 8:30am to 6pm, and Friday 8am to 5:30pm. If you have a dental emergency outside these hours, call first thing the next morning and we’ll prioritise you.
For genuine medical emergencies involving severe facial swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or uncontrolled bleeding, go directly to your nearest hospital emergency department.
Get Help Now
Dental pain doesn’t have to ruin your day (or your week). The sooner you get treatment, the better the outcome and the faster you’ll feel relief.
Call Warragul Dental Care on (03) 8899 6937 for emergency dental care in Warragul. We’re at 49 Victoria Street, ready to help.
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature. For serious symptoms like difficulty breathing or swallowing, go directly to hospital emergency.
