Emergency Dentistry

Medically reviewed by Dr Matthew Sng ·

Pricing on consultation CHAS

Dental emergencies

A dental emergency is any problem that needs prompt attention — severe toothache, a knocked-out or broken tooth, a lost filling or crown, bleeding or swelling, or an injury to the mouth or jaw. Getting seen early often means a simpler treatment, and often the tooth can still be saved.

What counts as an emergency

  • Severe or worsening toothache, especially with swelling or fever
  • A knocked-out (avulsed) tooth — see a dentist as soon as possible; time matters
  • A broken, cracked, or chipped tooth that is painful or sharp
  • A lost filling, crown, or bridge
  • Bleeding or swelling of the gums or face
  • An injury to the teeth, lips, or jaw

What to do before you are seen

  • Knocked-out tooth: hold it by the crown (not the root), rinse gently if dirty, and keep it moist — ideally in milk, or held inside the cheek. Do not let it dry out.
  • Toothache: rinse with warm water and take your usual pain relief as directed. A cold compress on the cheek can help swelling.
  • Broken tooth: keep any pieces, rinse your mouth, and cover a sharp edge with dental wax if it is irritating your tongue or cheek.
  • Bleeding: apply gentle, steady pressure with clean gauze.

These steps are first aid only — they do not replace seeing a dentist.

Book an urgent appointment

Use the urgent appointment options by region to see the next available slots across every clinic in your area, or call us and our team will find you the nearest slot. Emergency care is available across our clinics island-wide — find your nearest clinic.

For a severe facial injury, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or uncontrolled bleeding, go to a hospital emergency department.

Who it's for

Anyone with a sudden or severe dental problem — pain, a broken or knocked-out tooth, swelling, bleeding, or a lost filling or crown. If you are unsure whether it is urgent, contact us and our team will advise.

Time and visits

Urgent visits focus on relieving pain and stabilising the problem, often in a single appointment; some issues then need a follow-up for definitive treatment (for example a crown or root canal).

Recovery and aftercare

Depends on the problem and the treatment given. The dentist explains what to expect and any aftercare; a temporary measure on the day is often followed by definitive treatment at a later visit.

Risks and considerations

Delaying care can let a problem worsen — pain, infection, or losing a tooth that might otherwise have been saved. Some emergency treatments are a first step, with further treatment planned once the urgent issue settles.

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