Urgent Dental Care in Bunbury
“I Have a Dental Emergency”
—We Can Help
Prompt Dental Care Can Help Protect Long-Term Oral Health
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
- Severe Toothache
A severe toothache can be a sign of an underlying issue such as decay or infection. This type of discomfort shouldn’t be ignored. Early professional assessment may help manage the problem before it worsens.
- Knocked-Out Tooth
Hold the tooth carefully by the crown, not the root. Avoid scrubbing or rinsing it under running water. Place it in milk or saliva and seek urgent care within 30 minutes.
- Facial Swelling
Swelling in the face, jaw, or gums can be a sign of an underlying infection. This type of swelling may worsen rapidly. Prompt assessment can help prevent further complications and reduce discomfort.
- Broken Tooth
A cracked or fractured tooth can expose the inner layers, including nerves and roots. This may cause significant pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking. Prompt care can help preserve the tooth and manage discomfort.
What We Can Help With During a Dental Emergency
Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Smile
Are you ready to prioritise your oral health? Book a consultation with our friendly team to discuss your needs and explore suitable treatment options.
Our Work, Our Patients’ Happy, Healthy Smiles
*These images display actual patients of our clinic. Every case is different, and treatment outcomes can vary according to individual conditions and needs.
Why Bunbury Relies on Eversmile Dental in a Dental Emergency
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- Proudly Bunbury Locals
- We’re part of this community, and that means when you call us in an emergency, you’re not just a patient, you’re a neighbour. Whether it’s your child with a knocked-out tooth or you with a sudden toothache, we’ll do what we can to see you quickly and support you through it.
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- Serving Since 2006
- For nearly two decades, we’ve helped Bunbury locals through unexpected dental problems—broken teeth, lost fillings, sudden pain, and more. Our experienced team knows how to assess situations calmly and act quickly, without adding stress or confusion. When it matters most, you can trust we’ve got you.
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- Gentle Dental Care for Every Generation
- Emergencies don’t just happen to adults. Kids, teens, and older family members all face dental mishaps, too. That’s why we offer responsive care across all ages, whether it’s a sports injury, infection, or a dental issue that’s been quietly getting worse. We’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help.
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- Personalised Care That Feels Right for You
- Dental emergencies can be overwhelming, but we’re not here to rush or pressure you. We’ll talk you through what’s going on, explain your options clearly, and help you make decisions that work for your comfort, your budget, and your peace of mind. You’ll be heard, supported, and cared for.
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- Driven by Our Values
- Even in a dental emergency, our approach doesn’t change. We prioritise our values: honesty, integrity, and putting your well-being first. We won’t recommend unnecessary work, overcharge, or pressure you. Just real, practical advice and the urgent care you need to feel better, without the drama.
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- Advanced Technology for Comfort and Precision
- When time is critical, the right tools make all the difference. Our clinic is equipped with CBCT imaging, digital scanners, and advanced diagnostic tools that help us quickly pinpoint the problem and take action. We combine speed with precision, so you get effective relief without unnecessary delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do if my tooth pain is unbearable?
If your toothache becomes severe and unmanageable, it’s important to act quickly to manage your discomfort. You can take immediate steps at home to ease the pain until you can see a dentist.
- Call for Emergency Dental Advice:
If the pain is severe, contact an emergency dentist in Bunbury immediately. They can guide you on what to do next and may be able to arrange an urgent appointment. - Use a Cold Compress Repeatedly:
Apply a cold pack to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between. This can temporarily reduce severe pain and help control swelling. - Follow Pain Relief Instructions Carefully:
Take pain medication as directed, being careful to stick to the proper dosage. If over-the-counter medicine isn’t enough, a pharmacist can advise if stronger options are suitable until you see a dentist. - Rest and Elevate Your Head:
Rest with your head slightly elevated to reduce pressure and ease the throbbing sensation in your tooth. Lying flat can increase blood flow to the area, which may temporarily worsen pain and discomfort. - Check for Signs of Infection:
Look for swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth. These symptoms may indicate an infection that requires urgent dental treatment.
Unbearable tooth pain is a sign that you need professional dental care as soon as possible. Home treatment can help you manage the pain temporarily, but only a dentist can address the underlying problem.
How do I relieve tooth pain until I see a dentist?
If you’re dealing with tooth pain and can’t see a dentist immediately, there are ways to manage it safely. Here are the steps you can try at home to ease discomfort until you receive professional dental care.
- Keep the Area Clean:
Gently brush and floss around the sore tooth to remove any trapped food. Avoid harsh scrubbing and be gentle to prevent further aggravation of the area. - Rinse with Warm Salt Water:
Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gently swish it around your mouth. This helps clean the area and can reduce swelling or irritation. - Apply a Cold Compress:
Place a cold pack of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth against your cheek near the affected area. This can help provide temporary relief from tooth pain and reduce swelling until you see a dentist. - Take Over-the-Counter Pain Relief:
Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed to help manage your tooth pain safely. If you’re unsure which option is suitable, ask a pharmacist for professional advice before taking any medication. - Avoid Trigger Foods:
Steer clear of very cold, hot, sugary, or acidic foods and drinks, as these can make tooth pain worse.
These steps can provide temporary relief, but they do not replace professional care. It’s essential to see a dentist as soon as possible to address the cause of your toothache.
Is a knocked-out tooth a dental emergency?
A knocked-out tooth is a serious dental emergency that requires prompt attention and care. If you experience this, be aware of these points and know what to do next.
- Yes, a Knocked-Out Tooth is an Emergency:
A knocked-out tooth is a dental emergency because prompt treatment increases the chances of preserving the tooth. The sooner you seek professional care, the higher the chance of successful reattachment and recovery. - Time Matters — Act Quickly:
Ideally, a dentist should see you within 30 minutes of the tooth being knocked out. Acting quickly increases the chances of successfully reattaching the tooth. - Handle the Tooth Carefully:
Pick up the tooth by the crown (the white chewing part), not the root. Touching the root can damage important cells that help the tooth reattach. - Gently Rinse — Don’t Scrub:
If the tooth is dirty, rinse it gently with saline solution or milk. Avoid using soap or scrubbing the tooth, as this can damage its delicate surface. - Try to Reinsert the Tooth (If Possible):
If you feel confident, you can place the tooth back into its socket with the tooth facing the proper way. Bite down softly on a clean cloth to hold it in place. - Store the Tooth Safely if Reinsertion Fails:
If you can’t reinsert the tooth, place it in milk or saline to keep it moist and protected. If that’s not possible, gently place the tooth inside your cheek only if it is safe to do so. Dry storage can damage the tooth and reduce the chance of preserving it. - Seek Emergency Dental Care Immediately:
Contact an emergency dentist right away. Explain that you have had a tooth knocked out so they can prioritise your care.
Prompt action can make the difference between preserving and losing a tooth. If you or someone else experiences this, don’t wait—seek urgent dental care immediately.
Is a lost filling or crown an emergency?
Losing a filling or crown can feel concerning, but it’s not always an emergency that needs immediate treatment. The urgency depends on your symptoms and how soon you can see a dentist for a proper assessment. If this occurs, it’s essential to know what to do to manage the problem promptly.
- It may not be an immediate emergency:
A lost filling or crown is not usually life-threatening, but it should not be ignored for too long. Prompt dental care helps prevent further damage and protects the exposed tooth from decay or breakage. - Exposed tooth surfaces can become sensitive or painful:
When a crown or filling falls out, it can expose sensitive parts of your tooth and cause discomfort. This may lead to sensitivity to hot or cold foods and sharp edges that irritate your tongue or cheek. - Delaying treatment can lead to more significant problems:
If not managed, an unprotected tooth can develop decay, infection, or further structural damage. This may lead to more complex treatment and higher costs over time. - See a dentist promptly, especially if you’re experiencing pain:
If you’re experiencing pain, sensitivity, or difficulty eating, contact a dentist as soon as possible for advice. Urgent care may be needed to prevent further damage, even if it’s not an after-hours dental emergency. - Temporary at-home care can help protect your tooth:
Gently clean the area to keep it free from food debris and reduce irritation. Use temporary filling material or dental wax from a pharmacy to cover sharp edges and protect the exposed tooth.
A lost filling or crown is usually not an after-hours emergency; however, it still requires timely dental care. Seeing a dentist promptly helps prevent pain and reduces the risk of infection. Quick action helps protect your tooth and keeps treatment simple.
Should I go to the hospital if my toothache is unbearable?
If your toothache is unbearable and affects daily activities, you should see a dentist as soon as possible. Dental clinics are better equipped to address tooth pain quickly and effectively. However, if swelling affects breathing or spreads to the neck, seek medical attention immediately. Severe infections can become life-threatening and need urgent medical attention.
For most toothaches, hospitals typically offer only temporary pain relief without addressing the underlying dental issue. Visiting a dentist allows for a proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause, not just the symptoms. If you cannot reach a dentist quickly, the hospital can provide temporary relief from severe pain. Always prioritise your health and seek emergency care if symptoms worsen rapidly.
How much does emergency dental care cost?
If you’re facing a dental emergency, it’s natural to wonder how much the treatment will cost. While costs can vary, several key factors influence the final fee for emergency dental care. Here’s what you need to know:
- Type of Dental Emergency:
The cost depends on the type of dental emergency that requires urgent attention. Common emergencies, such as a toothache or a dental infection, may require different treatments, each with its associated fee. The more complex the issue, the higher the potential cost. - Treatment Required:
Emergency dental care may involve a temporary option to relieve pain and protect the affected tooth or area. More complex emergencies may require treatments such as fillings, tooth extractions, or root canal therapy, depending on the specific situation. The type and complexity of the treatment will significantly influence the total cost. - Location of the Dental Clinic:
The location of the clinic can affect pricing. Clinics in regional areas may have different operating expenses compared to those in larger cities. These differences can affect the overall cost of emergency dental services. - Dentist’s Experience:
The qualifications and experience of the attending dentist can also influence the cost. Dentists with advanced training in managing complex dental emergencies may charge accordingly for their services. - Diagnostic Procedures:
In some cases, additional tests, such as digital imaging (CBCT) scans, may be necessary to assess the problem accurately. These diagnostic steps add to the overall cost but are essential for providing the right treatment. - Follow-up Care:
Sometimes, emergency dental treatment is the first step in a longer treatment plan. Follow-up visits or further procedures may be required, which can influence the overall financial commitment.
Emergency dental care costs vary depending on individual needs and the specific treatment required for your situation. Before proceeding with any treatment, dental clinics are required to provide clear information about recommended procedures and their associated fees. This helps patients understand their options and choose the care that suits their needs.
Are dental emergencies covered by health funds?
Most health funds offer some level of cover for dental emergencies, but it depends on your policy. Ancillary policies often include emergency treatments like fillings, extractions, or temporary restorations. However, not all health funds cover every emergency procedure, especially complex or major treatments. It’s important to check your policy or contact your health fund to confirm what’s included.
Keep in mind that there may be waiting periods for how much your health fund will cover for emergency care. Some patients might still have out-of-pocket expenses, even with a private health fund. Patients are entitled to receive a clear explanation of expected costs and any applicable health fund benefits before treatment. This helps individuals understand their dental care options and feel confident about the choices they make.
Can the ER pull an infected tooth?
Hospital emergency rooms do not usually remove infected teeth because they are not equipped for dental extractions. They can provide temporary relief by prescribing antibiotics and pain medication to manage infection and discomfort. However, a dentist is the right professional to safely extract an infected tooth when needed. Visiting a dental clinic promptly is important to prevent the infection from worsening.
In severe cases where swelling affects breathing or causes facial cellulitis, the hospital may offer urgent care before dental treatment. Their role is to stabilise serious infections, not provide dental options like tooth extractions. After hospital treatment, patients are referred to a dentist for proper tooth removal. Prompt dental care remains essential to address the infection and protect your oral health.
How do I know if my toothache is life-threatening?
A toothache is often a warning sign that something isn’t right, but not every toothache is life-threatening. However, certain symptoms mean you should seek urgent dental or medical care immediately. Here’s how to tell if your toothache could be serious:
- Severe, Spreading Swelling:
Swelling that spreads to your face, neck, or eyes may be a sign of a serious dental infection. This infection could impact your breathing or spread to other areas, requiring urgent medical attention. This condition requires urgent medical attention. - Fever and Feeling Unwell:
A toothache accompanied by fever, chills, or general weakness may suggest the infection has spread beyond the tooth. Feeling “off” or sick with dental pain is not normal and needs urgent assessment. - Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing:
If your toothache makes it hard to breathe, swallow, or open your mouth, seek urgent medical attention. This may indicate a serious dental infection that could spread to other areas if not managed. Such symptoms may represent a serious medical issue and should be assessed urgently by a healthcare provider. - Intense, Unrelenting Pain:
Severe tooth pain that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medication may indicate a serious dental issue. If the pain worsens or disrupts your sleep, seek urgent dental assessment to prevent further complications. - Uncontrolled Bleeding from the Mouth:
Bleeding that continues after a dental injury or procedure is a serious warning sign. If applying pressure fails to control the bleeding, seek urgent medical or dental care. - Signs of Confusion or Rapid Heartbeat:
Although rare, a severe dental infection can cause systemic symptoms, such as confusion, dizziness, or a racing heart. These symptoms should never be ignored and need emergency care.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms alongside a toothache, don’t wait! It’s always safer to get checked and avoid serious health risks. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms require urgent attention, contact a dental clinic or call emergency services for advice.
