When dental pain strikes, we're here to help.
Dental emergencies can happen at any time — and when they do, you need fast, reliable care. At Spixworth Dental Practice, we understand the urgency. If you're experiencing severe pain, swelling, trauma, or a broken tooth during our opening hours, call us and we'll do our best to fit you in for same-day treatment.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
If you're unsure whether your situation is an emergency, here are some of the most common reasons patients contact us urgently:
- Severe toothache or throbbing pain
- Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums
- A knocked-out or loosened tooth
- A broken, chipped, or cracked tooth
- A lost filling or crown
- Bleeding that won't stop
- Dental abscess (pus, swelling, fever)
- Injury to the mouth or jaw
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, please call us as soon as possible. The sooner we see you, the better the outcome is likely to be.
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
While you're waiting to see us, here's how to manage the most common dental emergencies at home:
Knocked-Out Tooth
- Pick it up by the crown (not the root)
- Rinse gently — don't scrub
- Try to place it back in the socket, or store it in milk
- Call us immediately — time is critical
Severe Toothache
- Rinse with warm salt water
- Take over-the-counter pain relief (ibuprofen or paracetamol)
- Avoid very hot or cold food/drink
- Call us to book an urgent appointment
Broken Tooth
- Save any pieces
- Rinse your mouth gently
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Call us as soon as possible
Lost Filling or Crown
- Keep the crown if you have it
- Avoid chewing on that side
- Use temporary dental cement (available from pharmacies) as a short-term fix
- Call us to arrange a repair
Common Dental Emergencies We Treat
Toothache & Pain
Persistent or severe dental pain can indicate infection, decay, or damage beneath the surface. We'll diagnose the cause and provide fast relief.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
Whether caused by an accident, biting on something hard, or weakened enamel, we can repair and restore damaged teeth quickly.
Dental Abscess
A dental abscess is a serious infection that requires prompt treatment. Symptoms include swelling, throbbing pain, fever, and a bad taste in the mouth.
Lost Fillings & Crowns
A lost restoration can expose sensitive tooth structure. We'll replace or re-cement your filling or crown to protect the tooth and relieve discomfort.
What to Expect
When you contact us with an emergency, here's what happens next:
Call us — explain your symptoms so we can assess urgency.
Same-day appointment — we'll fit you in as quickly as possible.
Assessment — your dentist will examine, take X-rays if needed, and diagnose the problem.
Treatment — immediate pain relief and treatment provided.
Follow-up — further treatment arranged if needed.
Costs
Emergency treatment is available on the NHS (Band 1 urgent charge) when clinically necessary. Private emergency appointments are also available.
NHS Emergency
Urgent dental treatment is covered under NHS Band 1 charges when clinically necessary. This includes examination, diagnosis, and immediate care such as pain relief or drainage of an abscess.
Private Emergency
Private emergency appointments are available for patients who prefer faster access or require treatment beyond NHS provision. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden costs.
We'll always explain costs before treatment begins, so you can make an informed decision about your care.
