Dental Emergency
If you have a dental emergency, call United Smiles as soon as possible. We offer same-day emergency appointments in Mernda and surrounds, Monday to Saturday.
What to do in an emergency
Toothache
A persistent toothache is always a sign you should see a dentist as soon as practicable. In the meantime, rinse your mouth with water and try to clean any debris from the cavity with dental floss. If there is swelling, place a cold compress on the outside of the cheek (do not use heat). Take pain relief if needed, but remember that tablets must be swallowed as directed, never placed directly on the tooth, as this can cause more harm (especially aspirin).
Braces or retainers
If a wire is causing irritation, cover the end with a small cotton ball, piece of gauze or soft wax. If a wire is embedded in the cheek, tongue or gum tissue, do not try to remove it yourself. If an appliance is loose or broken, see your orthodontist or dentist.
Knocked out tooth
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it in milk, holding it by the crown rather than the root. If milk is not available, rinse briefly in water. Try to put the tooth back in its socket; if that is not possible, keep it in milk or inside the patient's cheek. Time is critical, so see a dentist within 30 minutes if possible.
Broken tooth
Clean the area gently with warm water. If the break was caused by a blow, apply a cold compress to the face near the injured tooth to minimise swelling. Try to find any missing pieces and bring them to your dentist, keeping them moist, as some fragments can be bonded back almost invisibly. See your dentist as soon as practicable.
Bitten tongue or lip
Apply direct pressure to any bleeding area with a clean cloth, and use a cold compress if there is swelling. If bleeding does not stop readily, or the injury is severe, go to the dentist or hospital.
Objects wedged between teeth
Try to remove the object gently with dental floss, guiding it carefully so as not to cut the gums. If you are not successful, see your dentist.
After-hours alternatives
If there are no appointments available, or no one is available to answer your call, try contacting one of the following.
The Northern Hospital
185 Cooper Street, Epping VIC 3076
Phone: (03) 8405 8000
The Royal Dental Hospital
1/720 Swanston Street, Carlton VIC 3053
Phone: 1300 360 054
Dental emergency? Call now.
Call (03) 8682 8658 during business hours, or book an appointment online.