Dental emergencies often strike when we least expect them. From the sharp, nagging pain of a toothache to the sudden shock of a knocked-out tooth, these situations can feel overwhelming. While it may be tempting to ignore symptoms or “wait and see,” delaying dental treatment can lead to more serious complications — and cost you more in the long run.
At Renew Dental Lounge in Mount Gravatt, we’re here to guide you through what to do in common dental emergencies, help you understand the causes of toothache, and explain why seeking care quickly is so important for both your oral and overall health.
Common Dental Emergencies and What to Do
Severe Toothache
Toothaches can be caused by decay, infection, or trauma, and they should never be ignored. Start by rinsing your mouth with warm water and gently flossing around the tooth to remove any trapped food. Over-the-counter pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, may provide temporary relief, but avoid placing aspirin directly on the gums as it can cause burns.
If the pain persists, contact Renew Dental Lounge in Mount Gravatt as soon as possible — toothaches don’t go away on their own, and early intervention helps prevent complications.
Knocked-Out Tooth
If an adult tooth is knocked out, act fast:
- Handle the tooth by the crown (the top part), never the root.
- Rinse gently with water if dirty — do not scrub.
- Try to reinsert it into the socket if possible, holding it in place with gentle pressure.
- If reinsertion isn’t possible, place the tooth in milk or your saliva and bring it with you immediately
See your dentist within 30 minutes for the best chance of saving the tooth. At Renew Dental Lounge Mount Gravatt, we prioritise same-day care for dental emergencies like this.
Broken or Chipped Tooth
If you chip or break a tooth:
- Rinse your mouth with warm water.
- Apply a cold compress to reduce swelling.
- Save any broken fragments and bring them with you — sometimes they can be reattached.
Treatment may include bonding, a filling, or a crown to restore function and appearance.
Lost Filling or Crown
A lost filling or crown can expose sensitive tooth tissue. Avoid chewing on that side and keep the area clean until you see us. Crowns can often be recemented if you bring them with you.
Dental Abscess or Swelling
An abscess is a serious infection that causes pain, swelling, and sometimes fever. Rinse with warm salt water to ease discomfort and apply a cold compress to the area. Contact our Mount Gravatt dental team urgently, as abscesses can spread infection to other areas of the body if untreated.
Common Causes of Toothache
While dental emergencies can happen suddenly, many toothaches develop gradually due to underlying issues. Here are the most common causes:
- Tooth decay – Cavities can expose sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
- Gum disease – As gums recede, roots become exposed, causing pain and sensitivity.
- Abscessed tooth – Infection around a tooth causes throbbing pain and swelling.
- Cracked or fractured tooth – Often caused by trauma or biting on hard objects.
- Impacted wisdom teeth – Can cause overcrowding, inflammation, and pain in the back of the mouth.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Treatment
Progressive Damage
A minor toothache can quickly escalate into a severe infection or tooth loss if ignored.
Risk of Infection
Untreated abscesses or cavities can spread bacteria to the bloodstream, impacting overall health.
Protecting Neighbouring Teeth
Prompt treatment prevents damage spreading to surrounding teeth.
Lower Costs and Less Pain
Early care often means simpler, less invasive (and less expensive) treatments.
Improved Quality of Life
Living with dental pain can affect eating, speaking, sleeping, and overall well-being.
Preventing Dental Emergencies in Mount Gravatt
While not every accident can be avoided, you can reduce your risk of emergencies and toothaches by:
- Attending regular dental check-ups and cleans at Renew Dental Lounge.
- Brushing twice daily and flossing once a day.
- Wearing a mouthguard during sports (especially common for active kids and teens in Mount Gravatt).
- Avoiding chewing on hard objects like ice or pens.
- Managing existing dental conditions before they worsen.
The Bottom Line
Toothaches and dental emergencies are your body’s way of saying something is wrong. Ignoring them won’t make them disappear — but timely treatment can save your teeth, your smile, and your health.
At Renew Dental Lounge Mount Gravatt, Dr Sharon and our caring team are here to help you through emergencies with gentle, effective care. Whether it’s a throbbing toothache, a knocked-out tooth, or sudden swelling, don’t delay — we’ll get you smiling again in no time.
FAQs
1. What counts as a dental emergency?
Any situation causing severe pain, swelling, bleeding, or risk of tooth loss, such as abscesses, knocked-out teeth, or broken teeth, should be treated as an emergency.
2. How quickly do I need to see a dentist for a knocked-out tooth?
Ideally within 30 minutes. At our Mount Gravatt clinic, we’ll always try to fit you in immediately for the best chance of saving your tooth.
3. Can I treat a toothache at home?
You can rinse with warm water, floss gently, and take pain relief — but this only manages symptoms. Book an appointment to treat the cause.
4. Is it safe to wait if my filling or crown falls out?
Not really. Exposed tooth tissue can be sensitive and more vulnerable to infection, so it’s best to have it repaired quickly.
5. How can I prevent dental emergencies in Mount Gravatt?
Regular check-ups at Renew Dental Lounge, wearing a sports mouthguard, and practising good oral hygiene are the best ways to reduce your risk.
Book an appointment today
At Renew Dental Lounge in Upper Mount Gravatt, we're redefining what it feels like to visit the dentist. If you're searching for a dentist in Mt Gravatt, we're here to help you feel at home in your smile. From gentle family dental check-ups, emergency dentist treatment, through to cosmetic dentistry like teeth whitening, veneers and dental implants, every visit is built on trust, compassion and excellence.
Patients looking for a dentist in Brisbane southside (Upper Mt Gravatt, Mount Gravatt, Mansfield and Mount Gravatt East) choose us for our spa-like environment, advanced technology and human-centred care that eases anxiety and transforms confidence. No matter where you're starting from, we'll meet you exactly where you are, supporting you with clear advice and personalised treatment options. Book an appointment today.
