What Counts as a Dental Emergency – and When Should You See a Dentist?
Dental problems have an unfortunate habit of appearing at the worst possible time. You may wake up with severe toothache, notice swelling around a tooth or suddenly break a filling and wonder: does this count as a dental emergency?
Quick answer
A dental emergency is generally a problem that needs prompt professional assessment because you're in significant pain, have swelling or infection, have suffered dental trauma, or a tooth or restoration has suddenly become damaged.
At Saltford Dental, we keep appointment slots available each day for dental emergencies, subject to availability. You do not need to be an existing patient to contact us for an emergency appointment.
Emergency appointments are currently £65 for registered patients and £85 for non-registered patients.
Is severe toothache a dental emergency?
Yes, persistent or severe toothache is a good reason to seek prompt dental advice.
Pain is your body's way of telling you that something isn't right. Toothache can have several causes, including decay, a damaged tooth, inflammation or infection, and the pain itself doesn't necessarily tell you how serious the underlying problem is.
Rather than repeatedly managing the pain at home, an emergency dental assessment allows a dentist to identify what's causing it and discuss appropriate treatment.
Is dental swelling an emergency?
Swelling around a tooth or gum should not be ignored, particularly if it is worsening.
Dental infections can sometimes cause swelling within the gum, face or jaw and need professional assessment.
If swelling is severe, rapidly increasing, affecting your breathing or swallowing, or you feel seriously unwell, seek urgent medical attention.
What if I've broken a tooth?
Contact a dentist.
A small chip may not always require same-day treatment, particularly if it isn't painful, but a more significant break can expose sensitive areas of the tooth or weaken what remains.
An emergency dentist can assess the damage and advise whether the tooth needs immediate treatment or can safely wait for a planned restoration.
Is a lost filling or crown an emergency?
It depends on the circumstances.
If you've lost a filling or crown and the tooth is painful, extremely sensitive or sharp, contact the practice for advice. Even if there is little discomfort, it's sensible to arrange an appointment rather than leaving the tooth unprotected for an extended period.
What should I do if I've knocked out a tooth?
A knocked-out adult tooth is time-sensitive.
Contact a dentist immediately. Handle the tooth carefully by the crown rather than the root. If you're unsure what to do, call the dental practice straight away so the team can advise you.
Can I book an emergency dentist if I'm not registered?
Yes.
Saltford Dental welcomes non-registered emergency patients, so you don't have to be an existing patient of the practice to contact us when something suddenly goes wrong.
This can be particularly useful if you've recently moved to the area, haven't needed a dentist for some time or simply don't currently have a regular dental practice.
What if I'm frightened of the dentist?
Please tell us.
Dental anxiety is incredibly common, particularly when you're already in pain. Patient reviews frequently mention Saltford Dental's friendly approach, clear explanations and ability to make nervous patients feel at ease.
For patients requiring additional support for suitable procedures, IV sedation is also available at Saltford Dental.
Emergency dentist near Bristol and Bath
Saltford Dental is located on Bath Road in Saltford, conveniently positioned for patients travelling from Keynsham, Bristol, Bath and surrounding villages.
We reserve emergency appointments each day, subject to availability.
If you're experiencing toothache, swelling, a broken tooth or another unexpected dental problem, don't spend days wondering whether it's serious enough to see a dentist.
Contact Saltford Dental and let us know what's happened.
Frequently asked questions
How much is an emergency dentist appointment at Saltford Dental?
Emergency appointments are £65 for registered patients and £85 for non-registered patients. Additional treatment, where required, is charged separately.
Do I have to be registered?
No. Saltford Dental accepts non-registered emergency patients.
Can I get a same-day dental appointment?
Saltford Dental keeps emergency slots available each day, subject to availability, so contact the practice as early as possible.
Is severe toothache an emergency?
Persistent or severe dental pain warrants prompt professional advice, particularly if accompanied by swelling or other symptoms.
