What Is a Dental Emergency?
- Severe toothache or dental pain
- Swelling in the face or gums
- Knocked-out (avulsed) tooth
- Broken, chipped, or cracked teeth
- Lost fillings, crowns, or bridges
- Dental abscess or infection
- Bleeding that does not stop
What To Do in a Dental Emergency
Knocked-Out Tooth
Knocked-Out Tooth
- Handle the tooth by the crown (top), not the root
- Gently rinse with water if dirty (do not scrub)
- Try to place it back in the socket, or store it in milk
- Seek dental care within 30–60 minutes
Severe Toothache
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
- Use a cold compress on the outside of your cheek
- Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums
Swelling or Infection
- This may be a sign of a serious infection
- Seek urgent dental care immediately
Our Emergency Dental Services
- Pain relief and diagnosis
- Tooth extractions
- Root canal treatment
- Temporary or permanent restorations
- Repair of broken teeth and restorations
- Infection management and antibiotics (if required)
Emergency Appointment Process
- Call our clinic as soon as possible
- Our team will assess your situation and prioritise your care
- You will be given the earliest available appointment (often same-day)
- Treatment will be provided to relieve pain and stabilise the issue
After-Hours Emergencies
- Call our clinic and follow the after-hours instructions
- If you have severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or trauma, go to the nearest hospital emergency department immediately
Costs & Payment
- Explain your treatment options
- Provide clear pricing before proceeding
- Discuss payment options where needed
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I have a severe toothache?
– Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, take pain relief if needed, and contact a dentist immediately. Avoid placing aspirin directly on the gum.
Can a knocked-out tooth be saved?
– Yes — if treated within 30–60 minutes, the tooth can often be reinserted successfully. Keep it moist (in milk or saliva) and see a dentist urgently.
When should I go to an emergency dentist?
– Severe pain, facial swelling, bleeding that won’t stop, trauma to teeth
How much does emergency dental treatment cost?
– Costs vary depending on treatment, but we always provide clear pricing before starting. We aim to keep emergency care affordable.
What You Can Do Before You Arrive
- Toothache: Rinse with warm salt water
- Swelling: Apply a cold compress
- Knocked-out tooth: Keep it in milk and bring it with you
- Broken tooth: Save any pieces if possible
Why Choose Project Dental?
- Same-day emergency appointments
- Experienced and gentle dentists
- Modern equipment and digital imaging
- Convenient location in South Dunedin
- Trusted by local families
