Prompt Assessment and Support Across Smile On Clinics

Dental emergencies can occur unexpectedly and may cause significant discomfort or concern. Across Smile On Clinics, our national network of practices provide emergency dental care aimed at relieving pain, assessing urgent dental issues, and supporting oral health until appropriate treatment can be provided.

What is a Dental Emergency?

A dental emergency generally involves pain, infection, trauma or damage that requires prompt dental attention. Early assessment may help prevent complications and guide appropriate care.

Common Dental Emergencies

Emergency dental care may be required for:

Severe or persistent toothache
Swelling of the gums, face or jaw
Dental infection or abscess
Broken, cracked or chipped teeth
Knocked-out or loosened teeth due to injury
Bleeding following dental trauma
Lost fillings, crowns or restorations causing pain
Pain following recent dental treatment

What to Do in a Dental Emergency

If you experience a dental emergency:

Contact your nearest Smile On Clinics practice as soon as possible
Explain your symptoms so urgency can be assessed
Follow any advice provided until you are seen

If you experience severe swelling affecting breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, or facial trauma, seek immediate medical attention via emergency services or a hospital emergency department.

Emergency Dental Assessment

An emergency appointment focuses on identifying the cause of the problem and relieving discomfort. This may include:

Review of dental and medical history

Examination of the affected area
Dental X-rays if clinically indicated
Pain or infection management
Temporary or definitive treatment where appropriate

Managing Pain and Infection

Emergency care may involve measures to:

Relieve pain
Reduce swelling or inflammation
Manage infection
Protect damaged teeth or tissues

All treatment options are discussed with you, including benefits, risks and alternatives, before proceeding.

Dental Trauma and Accidents

If a tooth has been knocked out or damaged:

Handle the tooth by the crown, not the root
If possible, place it back into the socket gently
Alternatively, store it in milk or saliva
Seek dental care as soon as possible

After-Hours and Availability

Emergency availability varies between Smile On Clinics practices. Contacting your local practice directly allows the team to advise on appointment availability or alternative options.

A Calm, Patient-Focused Approach

Across Smile On Clinics, emergency dental care is guided by:

Prompt assessment and clear communication
Focus on comfort and safety
Evidence-based decision-making
Informed consent
Planning for long-term oral health following the emergency

Book an Emergency Dental Appointment

If you are experiencing dental pain, swelling or injury, contact your nearest Smile On Clinics practice as soon as possible to arrange an emergency assessment.

Important Information

This information is general in nature and does not replace a personalised dental consultation. Treatment recommendations, urgency and outcomes vary and are determined following a clinical assessment by a registered dental practitioner.

All treatment images and videos are of Smile On Clinics patients and are shared with consent. No filters, AI editing or artificial lighting enhancements have been used.

Results vary between individuals. Outcomes, risks, complications, and recovery times vary for each person and procedure. Treatment results cannot be guaranteed.

This information is general in nature and is not medical advice. Before starting any treatment, please seek personalised guidance from a qualified, AHPRA-registered health practitioner. We always encourage considering a second opinion.

Emergency Dental Care