What to Do When You Need an Emergency Dentist After Hours: A Complete Step-By-Step Guide

When Dental Emergencies Happen After Hours

Toothaches, swelling and accidents often happen at night or over the weekend, which can leave people feeling unsure of what to do next.

What Counts as an After-Hours Emergency

An after-hours dental emergency is any situation involving sudden pain, swelling or trauma that affects your comfort or ability to eat. Common examples include:

• Severe toothache that will not settle
• Facial, gum or jaw swelling
• Knocked-out tooth
• Abscess or gum infection
• Broken, cracked or chipped teeth
• Lost filling or crown causing discomfort
• Injuries to the lips, gums or cheeks

Step-by-Step: What to Do Right Now

• Step 1: Stay calm and assess the situation - Check for swelling, bleeding, visible damage or pain that will not settle. These signs often mean you need urgent support.
• Step 2: Call our after-hours number immediately - Our team will listen, guide you and explain what to do next. As Dr Branav Kanaga (Principal Dentist) puts it, “When something does not feel right, the most important step is to reach out. A quick call allows us to understand what you are experiencing and offer guidance that can make you feel more at ease until we can see you.” Many issues can be stabilised safely at home until your appointment the next day, which often helps people feel calmer and more prepared (especially during late-night emergencies).
• Step 3: Follow our temporary care instructions - You may be advised to use saltwater rinses, safe pain relief, a cold compress for swelling, or to keep a knocked-out tooth in milk. Broken pieces should be brought with you.
• Step 4: Prepare for your visit the next day - Bring any restorations or fragments, along with your health fund card or Medicare CDBS details for eligible children. You will be guided through consent, X-rays and care options.
• Step 5: Know when to head straight to the hospital - Severe swelling that affects breathing, uncontrolled bleeding or major trauma should be managed in a hospital emergency department.

Common After-Hours Dental Emergencies and What to Do

• Severe toothache: Use warm saltwater rinses and safe pain relief until your visit.
• Chipped or broken tooth: Keep any fragments and avoid chewing on the area.
• Knocked out tooth: Place it in milk and call immediately.
• Abscess or infection: Rinse gently with warm saltwater and avoid applying heat.
• Lost filling or crown: Keep the area clean and avoid sticky foods.
• Orthodontic wire discomfort: Use orthodontic wax if available.
• Soft tissue injuries: Rinse gently and apply pressure with clean gauze.

Why Choose a 7-Day Emergency Dentist

Our Tarneit practice offers on-call support, same day appointments, a qualified and friendly team, continuity of care, GAP FREE options with health funds and Medicare CDBS for eligible children.