Start with what matters to you.
The pain is keeping me awake.
Tell the practice when it started, what makes it worse and whether pain relief is helping.
My face or gum is swelling.
Describe where the swelling is and whether it is spreading or affecting swallowing.
A tooth or filling has broken.
Explain any sharp edge, pain or injury so the practice can advise how quickly to attend.
Understanding Emergency Dental Assessment.
An Emergency Dental Assessment focuses on an urgent problem. The dentist checks the cause and decides what immediate care is possible. Definitive treatment may need another visit; an assessment booking is not a guarantee of same-day completion.
Assess the cause. Agree the immediate care.
Pain, Injury & Health
The team asks about symptoms, medicines and any recent dental treatment.
Examination & Images
The dentist checks the affected area and uses X-rays if needed to help find the cause.
Relief & Follow-up
Immediate care may be temporary. Ask what needs completing and how soon.
What Happens During Treatment.
Your dentist confirms the stages and timing for your own treatment plan.
Contact an Urgent Dental Service
Describe your pain, swelling, injury or bleeding so the team can advise on urgency. Do not wait for a DentalSelect enquiry reply if you need urgent care.
Examine the Cause
The dentist checks the problem and may take X-rays. They explain what can be done at this visit.
Relieve or Stabilise the Problem
Depending on the cause, immediate care may include a temporary repair, drainage or starting treatment. Antibiotics are not the answer to every toothache.
Complete the Treatment
You may need another appointment for a lasting repair. Ask what symptoms need urgent help and who to contact if things worsen.
The exact appointments and recovery time depend on your assessment and the treatment agreed with your dentist.
Your Options with This Treatment.
Things to Consider.
Antibiotics do not replace treatment of the source of a dental infection. The dentist decides whether they are indicated and what care is needed to address the tooth or swelling.
Your Emergency Dental Assessment questions.
Can I use the enquiry form for an emergency?
Do not rely on it for urgent help. Contact a practice or urgent service directly.
Will I need to pay again for later treatment?
Possibly. Ask what the initial fee covers and request the follow-up plan.
What if the pain suddenly stops?
Do not assume the cause has gone. Follow the dentist’s advice, particularly if swelling or other symptoms remain.