Emergency Dentistry

When Do You Need Emergency Dental Care?

Dental emergencies don't wait for convenient times. Whether it's a weekend, holiday or middle of the night, we're committed to being here when you need us most. Our emergency care offers responsive, dependable help exactly when you need it.

Contact us immediately for:

  • Trauma and accidents affecting teeth

  • Swelling due to infections

  • Severe dental or facial pain

We’re always ready to help your family. Contact us today for emergency dental care in Coffs Harbour.

What should you do after dental trauma?

Dental accidents can be frightening, but quick action makes all the difference. Here's what you need to know:

  1. Chipped or Broken Tooth (Still in Place)

What it means: The tooth is damaged but hasn't moved from its position.

Immediate steps:

  • Find and save any broken fragments

  • Avoid chewing on the affected side

  • Contact us immediately

Treatment: Usually involves reattaching fragments or placing a filling or crown. If the nerve is exposed (visible red spot), root canal treatment may be needed.

  1. Loose or Displaced Tooth

What it means: The tooth has shifted position or feels wobbly after impact.

Immediate steps:

  • Don't touch or wiggle the loose tooth

  • Save any broken pieces

  • Seek emergency care immediately

Treatment: Requires repositioning and stabilising the tooth, often followed by root canal treatment.

  1. Knocked-Out Tooth

What it means: The entire tooth has been removed from its socket.

Immediate steps:

  • Handle the tooth by the crown (top), never the root

  • Rinse gently with milk or saline if dirty

  • Try to place back in socket if possible, or store in milk

  • Get to us within 30 minutes for best results

Treatment: Emergency re-implantation with splinting and stabilisation.

Is dental swelling dangerous?

Serious oral, facial or neck swelling of dental origin can be potentially fatal. If the person experiencing swelling is having difficulty breathing, then immediately call an ambulance or present to Coffs Harbour Base Hospital’s Accident and Emergency. 

Typically, swelling is associated with an active infection that may be located around or under a tooth. Swelling from an oral infection is also often associated with significant pain, difficulty eating, or limited opening. Commonly, swelling is associated with a broken or previously painful tooth or a partially erupted wisdom tooth. 

What we'll do:

  • Prescribe antibiotics for immediate relief

  • Drain infection if necessary

  • Address the underlying cause

Remember: Antibiotics treat symptoms, not the root cause. Follow-up treatment is essential.

Note: Antibiotics will not solve the underlying cause of the infection, so follow up will be necessary. 

What type of dental pain are you experiencing?

Sharp, Intense Pain (Live Tooth)

Deep, Throbbing Ache (Dead Tooth)

Pressure Around Cheeks (Sinus-Related)

Jaw and Temple Pain (TMJ/Grinding)

    • Responds strongly to hot/cold

    • Sharp, shooting sensations

    • Often triggered by sweet foods

    • Avoid temperature triggers

    • Take ibuprofen if not allergic

    • Contact us same day

    • Constant, dull pain

    • Doesn't respond to hot/cold

    • May cause facial swelling

    • Antibiotics typically needed

    • Pain medication for comfort

    • Emergency appointment required

    • Affects multiple upper teeth

    • Worse when lying down

    • Accompanied by nasal congestion

    • Sinus sprays and saline rinses

    • Dental evaluation to rule out tooth problems

    • Radiates from jaw joint

    • Morning headaches

    • Clicking or locking jaw

    • Minimise jaw movement

    • Apply heat packs

    • Anti-inflammatory medication

Experiencing a dental emergency?

If you have experienced an emergency, dental trauma, swelling or pain, schedule a priority appointment with a dentist at our Coffs Harbour or Dorrigo locations. You’ll receive timely, compassionate care tailored to your comfort and needs.

Make a Booking

Make an appointment to discuss your unique dental or restorative needs. We have two locations, Coffs Harbour and Dorrigo.

Please note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risk. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Emergency Dental FAQ

  • For trauma or severe pain, contact us immediately. For knocked-out teeth, every minute counts – ideally within 30 minutes. If an immediate dental appointment is not available, contact Coffs Harbour Emergency Department at the base hospital.

  • Ibuprofen (if not allergic) is often most effective as it reduces both pain and inflammation. Follow package directions.

  • If your child experiences a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or facial swelling, contact a dentist for kids immediately. Prompt care can prevent complications and relieve pain quickly. In the meantime, keep the area clean, apply a cold compress for swelling, and if a tooth is lost, store it in milk and bring it to the appointment.

    • Any broken tooth fragments

    • List of current medications

    • Insurance information

    • Someone to drive you if pain medication was taken

  • Antibiotics treat the symptoms and prevent the spread, but definitive treatment (root canal, extraction, or deep cleaning) is needed to eliminate the source.