Your Guide to Dental Emergencies

Welcome to your guide about managing dental emergencies at Claregate Dental Practice, in Wolverhampton.

In this guide we will cover the most common questions asked about coping with dental emergencies. Some more information can be found on our website, and you are always welcome to contact us for a free consultation with our Patient Care Co-ordinators.

What should I do, and who should I contact if I have a dental emergency in Wolverhampton (or nearby)?

• During normal working hours, call the practice for advice. You can also WhatsApp or email the practice too (see below) if the line is busy or more convenient for you.
• We always aim to get you booked in on the same day to be seen by one of our dentists.
• Some emergencies may not actually need to be seen the same day, once you have spoken to have experienced, trained staff for initial advice.
• For out of hours cover, our answering machine message will give you the latest advice on what to do. For NHS patients, please call NHS 111.

Can I get an emergency appointment with my regular dentist?

• Where possible, we will aim to book you in with your regular dentist.
• However, please bear in mind that your dentist may be away, e.g. on annual leave. Hence, you’ll be looked after by another one of our (lovely!) dentists.
• You also have the option to wait until your dentist returns, if wish.
• We provide emergency appointments for both our registered patients and those who have not been here before.

What counts as a dental emergency?

• Common dental emergencies are toothache or abscesses (infection).
• But other situations are classed as a dental emergency e.g. if you have an accident and knocked a tooth, or broken teeth/fillings etc.
• Where possible, you should seek help sooner rather than later.
• For example, excessive bleeding from the mouth during out of hours’ time, should be seen by A&E at your local hospital.

Is there anything I can do to manage a dental emergency?

• Some situations can be managed yourself, e.g. using warm salt water mouthwash or gel for a mouth ulcer.
• However, please seek advice first from a member of our team.
• If you have any doubt or the situation does not improve quickly, please contact us for further information or an appointment.
• Some dental emergencies if left untreated can lead to complications.
• Severe infections, e.g. something that’s affecting you breathing, must be seen by A&E at your local hospital as a matter of urgency.

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