Emergency Dentist in Stretford

Frequently asked dental emergency questions

I have bad toothache – what pain relief do you recommend?

Toothache is one of the most painful sensations we experience and means you cannot concentrate on much else. A combination of poor oral hygiene and diet can contribute to decay which is often responsible for toothache.

What you can do?

• You can take pain killers such as paracetamol/ibuprofen. Please ensure you always read the label, are not allergic to the medication and do not take more than the maximum dosage recommended on the label.
• If it is only hot things that cause the toothache to flare up, applying something cold to the source of the pain can often be soothing.

For contraindications, side-effects and maximum doses, already read the label!

I think I have a dental abscess – how can I be sure?

Abscesses are infections that happen near a tooth’s root or in the space between the teeth and gums. Severe pain with or without swollen gums or face are symptoms of a possible infection or abscess.

The only way to be sure that you are suffering from a dental abscess is to book an emergency appointment with a qualified dental professional.

Contact our dedicated 24/7 emergency dental service, Dental Triage, on 0161 300 2099 immediately to reduce your pain and risk of the infection spreading to other parts of the body, which can happen if the abscess is left untreated.

What you can do?

• You can take pain killers such as paracetamol/ibuprofen. Please ensure you always read the label, are not allergic to the medication and do not take more than the maximum dosage recommended on the label
• Applying cold pressure to the affected area can often be soothing
• Rinsing with salt water can help

I’ve had an accident which has caused trauma to my face, mouth or teeth – what should I do?

Facial injuries can be especially distressing.

We always recommend that you see a dental or medical professional if you suffer trauma to your face/teeth.

This is especially the case if:

• you are bleeding profusely.
• you have vomited.
• you are having difficulty breathing.
• you have been unconscious.
• you are unable to open or close your mouth.
• you are suffering from a large wound.
• your teeth no longer meet in the same way that they used to before your injury.

What you can do?

• If you feel comfortable to do so, gentle rinse out your injury with salt water. This makes it easier to see any damage.
• If your injury is bleeding, apply a damp gauze/handkerchief to the area for 20 minutes and stay still.
• If an adult tooth has completely fallen out and you feel confident to do so, take the tooth from the crown (the white part, not the brown root), rinse the tooth under water and place the tooth back in its original socket.
  • If you are unable to return the tooth to its original socket, place the tooth in a cup of milk or saliva until you can see an emergency dentist.
  • Please note – baby teeth are NOT to be placed back in their original socket.
• For chipped or broken teeth, you can take simple painkillers such as paracetamol/ibuprofen if the injury is causing you pain. Ensure you are not allergic to the painkillers and follow the instructions on the label carefully, including not taking more than the recommended dosage).
• Most minor cuts to the lips or cheeks will often heal on their own.