In Aotearoa, dental emergencies can happen when least expected , a sudden toothache, a broken filling, or even a knocked‑out tooth. While urgent professional care is essential, knowing how to manage symptoms at home can help you stay calm and safe until you can reach a clinic like Howick Dental Surgery in East Auckland.
What Counts as a Dental Emergency?
According to Health New Zealand, a dental emergency includes any oral health issue that won’t improve on its own and may worsen without prompt treatment. Common emergencies include:
- Severe tooth pain that persists despite home remedies
- A knocked-out or partially dislodged tooth
- A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth
- Lost or cracked fillings or crowns
- Facial swelling, gum abscess, or fever
- Severe soft-tissue injury like deep cuts to lips or gums
First-Aid Steps You Can Do at Home
Toothache
- Rinse with warm salt water to clean the area.
- Gently floss to remove trapped food debris.
- Apply OTC pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen (if it’s safe for you).
- Use a cold compress on the cheek to reduce swelling and pain.
Broken, Chipped, or Lost Filling/Crown
- Save any broken pieces if possible.
- Temporarily protect sharp edges by covering them with sugar‑free gum or clean dental wax.
- Rinse regularly and apply a cold compress if there is swelling
Knocked‑Out Tooth (Permanent)
- Handle the tooth by the crown only — never touch the root.
- Rinse it gently (don’t scrub), try to reinsert it if possible.
- Store it in milk, saline, or hold it between your cheek and gum until you can see an emergency dentist. Immediate action offers the best chance to save the tooth.
Soft‑Tissue Injuries (Lips, Gums, Tongue)
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water.
- Apply pressure or a cold compress to stop bleeding.
- Visit an emergency provider if bleeding continues, or for deep wounds.
Swelling or Abscess
- Rinse with salt water.
- Use pain relief and cold compresses.
- Don’t attempt to lance or drain the abscess yourself — seek immediate dental care.
When to Call Howick Dental Surgery
At Howick Dental Surgery, they’re equipped to handle dental emergencies, including severe toothaches, trauma, broken teeth, abscesses, and lost restorations. They offer urgent appointments and even emergency care on Sundays via their 24/7 dental helpline: call 09 534 7465 or text 021 186 9305.
What Happens During Emergency Treatment?
When you arrive, the team will:
- Assess your pain or injury.
- Provide urgent relief — such as smoothing sharp edges, temporary fillings, or prescribing antibiotics.
- Plan follow‑up treatment if needed — root canal therapy, permanent crown replacement or repair.
- Offer guidance on preventing further damage or infection.
Many practices in New Zealand, including Howick Dental Surgery, also assist with ACC claims following trauma or injury-related dental emergencies.
Tips While You Wait
- Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing near the injured area.
- Keep brushing gently twice daily, avoiding trauma to the injured site.
- Do not delay seeking help — the sooner you get professional care, the better the outcome.
Managing the immediate aftermath of a dental emergency with simple at-home care can help ease pain and limit damage. But professional treatment is vital, and in East Auckland, Howick Dental Surgery is ready to assist, even during weekends or after-hours emergencies.
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