Emergency Dentist Bannockburn & Geelong
What to Do in a Dental Emergency
- Stay calm – We’re here to help.
- Call us immediately on (03) 5281 1899 – We will guide you through what to do and arrange a priority appointment.
- Follow first aid advice – For knocked-out teeth, place them in milk. For bleeding, apply gentle pressure. For swelling, apply a cold compress.
- Avoid delaying treatment – Dental emergencies often worsen without prompt care.
What Is a Dental Emergency?
• Severe toothache that doesn't go away
• Swelling in the face or gums
• Knocked-out or chipped tooth
• Broken, loose, or lost fillings or crowns
• Trauma to the mouth, teeth, or jaw
• Abscess or infection (often presenting with swelling or fever)
• Bleeding that won’t stop from the mouth or gums
Prompt treatment can relieve pain, prevent further damage, and save teeth that might otherwise be lost.
Common Emergency Dental Situations We Treat
Toothaches
Pain that is persistent, sharp, or throbbing may indicate decay, infection, or trauma. We’ll identify the cause and provide fast, effective relief.
Swelling or Abscess
Swelling is often a sign of infection and requires urgent attention. Infections can spread quickly, so timely treatment is critical.
Broken or Chipped Teeth
Whether caused by injury or biting something hard, a broken tooth should be assessed quickly. We can smooth sharp edges, restore function, and protect the tooth.
Knocked-Out Teeth
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, act fast. Place the tooth in milk and call us immediately. In some cases, we can save and reinsert the tooth.
Lost Fillings or Crowns
A lost restoration can leave a tooth exposed and sensitive. We can repair or replace it to protect the tooth and restore comfort.
Injuries to Lips, Gums, or Cheeks
Soft tissue injuries can be painful and bleed heavily. We provide careful care to minimise complications and support healing.
After-Hours and Weekend Advice
• Try our answering machine first for any special instructions.
• Contact a 24-hour dental emergency clinic in Geelong or Melbourne.
• For severe facial swelling or difficulty breathing, visit Geelong Hospital Emergency or call 000.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if I knock out a tooth?
Gently rinse it without touching the root and place it in milk. Call us immediately. The sooner you get to us, the better the chance of saving the tooth.
2. Can I take painkillers before my appointment?
Yes, over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage pain. Avoid aspirin if there is bleeding.
3. Do you offer same-day appointments for emergencies?
Yes, we reserve time each day for urgent cases and will do our best to see you promptly.
4. What if I have swelling in my face?
Facial swelling can indicate a serious infection. Contact us immediately. If we’re closed, seek care at a hospital emergency department.
5. Will I be treated on the spot?
In most cases, yes. If complex treatment is needed, we may provide temporary relief and schedule follow-up care.
6. Are emergency dental visits covered by health insurance?
Many private health funds offer cover for emergency dental care. We can help process your claim on the spot if you have your card with you.
Our Gentle, Patient-Focused Approach
• Prioritise emergency bookings
• Offer happy gas for patients with anxiety
• Provide clear explanations and gentle treatment
• Focus on long-term solutions, not just quick fixes
Our team will do everything we can to get you out of pain and back to smiling comfortably.
Preventing Dental Emergencies
• Attend regular check-ups and cleans
• Wear a custom mouthguard during sports
• Avoid using teeth as tools (e.g. to open packaging)
• Seek care early for any unusual symptoms
Our team will help you put a plan in place to reduce your risk of emergencies moving forward.
