Tooth pain: when to seek urgent care
Know when to call a dentist urgently and when to go straight to a hospital emergency department.
Call a dentist promptly
Severe pain that disrupts sleep or everyday activities, increasing swelling, or an injury to a tooth needs urgent dental advice. Fever or a bad taste together with swelling may suggest an infection, but symptoms alone cannot confirm the cause.
When to go to hospital
Go to a hospital emergency department immediately for difficulty breathing, swallowing or speaking; severe swelling in the mouth, neck or around an eye; heavy bleeding that will not stop; or a serious facial or jaw injury. Do not wait for an online booking response in these situations.
While arranging care
Choose soft food, avoid chewing on the painful tooth and avoid very hot or cold drinks. Ask a pharmacist about pain relief suitable for your health and medicines, and follow the instructions. Pain relief does not treat the underlying cause. A dental abscess needs treatment and will not resolve on its own.
When calling, explain when symptoms started, whether you have swelling or fever, and any recent injury. If the clinic cannot be reached, seek another available provider rather than delaying care for warning signs.
Questions about your dental health?
Contact the clinic to discuss your needs. Emergency warning signs require immediate medical care.
